Fortescue has successfully conducted the “world’s first” use of ammonia in a dual-fuelled vessel in the Port of Singapore.

Developed in collaboration with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), government agencies, research institutes and industry partners, Fortescue demonstrated the use of the hydrogen-based fuel in combination with diesel.

The Fortescue Green Pioneer was supplied with three tonnes of liquid ammonia from the existing ammonia facility at Vopak Banyan Terminal on Jurong Island for the trial.

Taking place over seven weeks, the confirmation of the trial has now ensured Fortescue Green Pioneer has “flag approval” from the Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS) and the ‘Gas Fuelled Ammonia’ notation by DNV.

The vessel includes a gas fuel delivery system, safety systems and infrastructure, and two out of four engines converted to be able to use ammonia combined with diesel in the combustion process. The additional engines will operate on conventional fuels when required.

H2 View understands a second delivery of three tonnes of ammonia is expected and will be loaded onto the vessel to conduct further tests over the next few weeks.

Prior to the trial, the vessel sailed from Singapore to the Middle East to be showcased at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and associated meetings in Dubai, UAE.

Chairman of the Australian-based Fortescue, Dr. Andrew Forrest, sent a message to the Singaporean Government that said, “Green is green. Anything else is made from fossil fuels. The Fortescue Green Pioneer is proof that safe, technical solutions for ammonia power engines exist.”

He added, “We must push to see global emitters paying fair carbon prices for heavy fuels used in traditional shipping. These prices must provide clear investment signals to drive green investment.

“As I did at COP28 in Dubai, I am once again calling on the world’s ports to get on with setting fair, safe and stringent fuel standards for green ammonia and not shy away from their responsibilities simply because of lack of character.”