Australia’s Fortescue’s marine division, Fortescue Zero, showcased its dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel, Green Pioneer, in London ahead of the IMO’s next Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting in April. The vessel, which arrived in the UK from Singapore, aims to demonstrate the viability of ammonia as a sustainable marine fuel. After being certified in Singapore, the vessel will undergo inspections by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure its safety and operational readiness for future journeys.
Fortescue acquired the vessel MMA Leveque in 2022 and converted two of its four diesel-electric engines to use ammonia or diesel. The first-ever ammonia bunkering took place in Singapore in March 2024. Fortescue’s Executive Chairman, Dr. Andrew Forrest, emphasized the importance of embracing real zero fuel standards in the shipping industry and urged the IMO to expedite the transition away from dirty bunker fuels. The UK’s Maritime Minister, Mike Kane, praised the vessel as a driver of decarbonization and reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving net-zero goals.
During its time in the UK, Fortescue Green Pioneer worked closely with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to comply with UK regulations. Port State Control inspections were scheduled in Southampton, followed by a showcase of the vessel’s technology and capabilities in London’s West India Dock for maritime stakeholders, partners, and the public. The MCA is collaborating with other member states at the IMO to develop guidelines on ammonia use as a fuel, a critical step as engine manufacturers prepare for commercial deliveries of ammonia engines in the near future.
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