Fortescue’s dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel has arrived at the Port of Southampton, UK, for inspection before heading to London, where it will showcase its potential for future clean maritime operations.
Fortescue Green Pioneer will undergo Port State Control inspections by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to ensure full compliance with UK regulatory requirements before it continues to London’s West India Dock for demonstrations.
Thorough safety and operational checks will be undertaken before the vessel continues to London. MCA Director, Lars Lippuner, praised the collaboration with Fortescue and welcomed the opportunity to showcase the vessel.
The Singapore-flagged vessel is powered by a four-stroke engine, two of which can be fuelled by ammonia and diesel, reportedly a world’s first for the technology.
“Through our UK SHORE programme, we are committed to supporting the technology and alternative fuels needed to make zero-emission shipping a reality and establishing the UK as a clean energy superpower,” explained Mike Kane, the UK’s Maritime Minister.
UK SHORE (Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions) was launched in 2022 with £206m in funding to accelerate R&D in clean maritime technologies and infrastructure.
Fortescue’s Executive Chairman and Founder, Dr. Andrew Forrest, said the Green Pioneer will deliver a “simple message” to the UK, adding that the opportunity for clean maritime fuels cannot be missed.
“This vessel encapsulates the innovation and character that has defined Fortescue’s mission to lead the world beyond fossil fuels,” he said.
“Over the coming months, global shipping regulators at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) have the chance to fast-track shipping’s move away from dirty bunker fuel and embrace real zero fuel standards.
“With the right character and leadership, they can chart a course towards a more sustainable future for the planet and advance a dramatic reduction in shipping costs through the widespread adoption and scaling of renewable sources.”
The MCA works with operators and classification societies to regulate ammonia-fuelled vessels under IMO guidelines, supporting their development, conversion and safety compliance.
Last March (2024), Fortescue successfully conducted the world’s first use of ammonia in a dual-fuelled vessel in the Port of Singapore, where its Green Pioneer vessel was supplied with three tonnes of liquid ammonia.
Read more:Fortescue’s dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel set to serve the Port of Singapore
