ClassNK has granted permission in principle (AiP) for the design of a sizable ammonia-powered bulk carrier to the Japanese shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and neighboring trading and investment firm Mitsui & Co.

The 210,000 dwt Capesize bulker with an ammonia-powered main engine, which burns without emitting carbon dioxide (CO2), received permission.

In order to maximize cruise range for different routes and to maximize cargo space, the ship will also have two ammonia fuel tanks on deck. The vessel’s dimensions and other details were jointly decided upon by MOL and Mitsui, and both businesses tasked Mitsubishi Shipbuilding with designing the ship.

A risk assessment is also going to be done by ClassNK to make sure that there aren’t any unacceptable risks at the basic design stage and to determine what needs to be taken into account in the detailed design, which will include safety measures that fully account for the toxicity of ammonia and other factors.

MOL and Mitsui promised to support the development of net-zero emission oceangoing vessels and contribute to society’s overall efforts to achieve decarbonization as hopes for ammonia as a marine fuel rise.