Imabari Shipbuilding is expected to fit a new bulk carrier with a pioneering ammonia-power engine, developed by MAN Energy Solutions. This marks one of the first applications of MAN’s ammonia-powered engine that is under development in Denmark.
The engine will be constructed in Japan by MITSUI E&S. It will be used in a 200,000 dwt class bulk carrier, a joint venture of K Line, NS United, and Itochu Corporation.
The team at MAN recognises the project as a significant milestone in their journey towards the full realisation of ammonia-powered engines. “This project confirms that we are on the right track with our dual-fuel ammonia concept,” stated Brain Østergaard Sørensen, Vice President and Head of R&D, Two-Stroke at MAN Energy Solutions. He shared the team’s satisfaction in witnessing the outcome of their diligent work on understanding and safely harnessing ammonia as a marine fuel.
## Intensifying Interest, Embracing Regulatory Clarity
With growing concerns about increasing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping, alternative fuels have been thrown into the spotlight. Bjarne Foldager, Country Manager for Denmark, MAN Energy Solutions, stated that interest in this innovative engine has surged, and fostered a belief that alternative fuels like e-methanol, e-methane, and green ammonia will eventually compete against fossil fuels. Foldager called for improved regulation to encourage industry adoption and nurture a carbon-neutral future by 2050.
The development of MAN’s ammonia engine began in 2019, according to Thomas S. Hansen, Head of Sales and Promotion at MAN Energy Solutions. Over 100,000 man-hours have been dedicated to this project. Hansen anticipates a swift uptake of ammonia-fuelled engines and hopes for them to make up around 35% of fuel used onboard large merchant-marine vessels by 2050.
