The European Maritime Safety Agency published a new report focused on the safety of ammonia as a marine fuel. An ABS-led consortium developed the study. The consortium included the National Technical University of Athens and Fundación Valenciaport.
Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment. “ABS remains committed to supporting the maritime industry as it navigates future energy options such as ammonia as marine fuel,” he stated. The report reflects close collaboration with industry stakeholders and academia to provide critical information for low- and zero-carbon operations.
Recommendations Expand IMO Guidelines
The report includes recommendations that expand upon existing interim guidelines from the International Maritime Organization. Industry stakeholders communicated feedback through a survey and online workshop. They emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of ammonia’s properties to effectively mitigate safety risks associated with its use as marine fuel.
Professor Nikolaos P. Ventikos of NTUA highlighted the importance of safety-focused research. “Exploring pathways toward more environmentally sustainable maritime transport is essential for society, but it must always be pursued with safety as the highest priority,” he said.
EMSA’s role is important in funding rigorous research and making results publicly available. This enables informed decision-making across the entire maritime community. NTUA facilitated and carried out risk assessment studies, such as HAZOP, that are traditionally confidential.
Ports Must Prepare for Ammonia Bunkering
Josep Sanz-Argent, Director of Energy Transition and Sustainability at Fundación Valenciaport, emphasized ammonia’s future role. “Ammonia will play a key role in the decarbonization of the maritime sector,” he stated.
Ports must prepare for bunkering operations to be carried out safely within their jurisdiction. The study results will contribute significantly to preparing that future.
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