A vessel powered by a groundbreaking dual-fuel system using ammonia has made its way to the UK and is currently docked at the Port of Southampton. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is overseeing the necessary inspections of the Singapore-flagged vessel in Hampshire before it heads to West India Dock in London.
Dubbed the “world’s first” of its kind, the vessel boasts a unique setup with two four-stroke engines that can run on either ammonia or diesel. Maritime Minister Mike Kane hailed this innovative approach as a significant step towards decarbonizing the shipping industry.
Ammonia, known for being a zero-carbon fuel, has the potential to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector. The MCA praised the vessel as a prime example of how shipping can transition towards a more sustainable future, a mission strongly supported by the UK Government. To ensure compliance with UK regulations, the MCA has been working closely with the Fortescue Green Pioneer team during its time in the country.
According to MCA director Lars Lippuner, the Fortescue Green Pioneer represents a promising glimpse into the potential of cleaner shipping practices. Dr. Andrew Forrest, the executive chairman and founder of Fortescue, emphasized the critical importance of seizing the opportunity presented by the vessel’s advanced technology. As the vessel makes its way to West India Dock in London for further showcasing, there is optimism for global shipping regulators to accelerate the shift towards cleaner energy sources and promote a more sustainable future for the planet while reducing shipping costs
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