World’s First Ammonia-Powered Vessel to be Launched by 2026

The Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has partnered with Norwegian shipowner Eidesvik Offshore to convert the offshore platform supply vessel, the “Viking Energy,” to run on ammonia fuel by early 2026. This conversion will make it the world’s first ammonia-powered vessel in active service. Wärtsilä will provide the necessary engine, fuel gas supply system, and exhaust gas aftertreatment for the conversion, aiming to reduce emissions from the vessel by at least 70 percent.

The initiative comes as the shipping industry seeks more sustainable fuel options to meet global regulations for net-zero emissions by mid-century. Equinor and Eidesvik Offshore have a long history of collaboration in environmental technology, with “Viking Energy” being the world’s first LNG-powered platform supply vessel when delivered in 2003. The project is partially funded by the EU program “Horizon Europe” with 5 million euros.

Equinor plans to reduce maritime emissions from its Norwegian operations by 50 percent by 2030, with a strong belief in using ammonia as fuel on supply vessels. The partnership between Wärtsilä, Equinor, and Eidesvik Offshore highlights the importance of cooperation in adopting green technologies. The comprehensive conversion package for the “Viking Energy” includes the installation of a new engine, fuel gas supply system, and exhaust aftertreatment in 2026, along with a maintenance contract.

Source