Maritime Industry Prepares for Ammonia as Marine Fuel with Safety, Training, and Adoption Standards

The maritime industry is preparing for the implementation of ammonia as a marine fuel, expected to be technologically feasible by 2025-2026. While ammonia offers environmental benefits, its toxic nature requires new safety approaches. A survey by the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping found that most maritime community members are willing to work with ammonia-fueled vessels if provided with comprehensive training and certification.

Since 2021, the MMMCZCS has focused on researching the safe use of ammonia as a marine fuel, aiming to develop best practices for design and arrangements. In collaboration with Lloyd’s Register, the center published a risk assessment analysis and human factor considerations related to the transition to ammonia fuel use in 2023. A roundtable in October 2023 emphasized the importance of assessing risk perception among maritime communities, which could influence ammonia’s adoption as a marine fuel.

A survey conducted by MMMCZCS from February to April 2024 gathered insights from over 2,000 respondents across the maritime community. The majority expressed willingness to work with ammonia-fueled vessels, contingent on comprehensive training and certification. Safety concerns, desire for knowledge and training, and the need for enhanced onboard fuel systems were highlighted as critical elements. The survey also revealed a lack of knowledge regarding technical aspects of ammonia handling and operations, as well as concerns about regulations and additional costs associated with training.

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