Project Lead
The main entity responsible for this project is a consortium formed by Yara Clean Ammonia, the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD), and the Pilbara Port Authority (Australia).
Project Description
This pilot test successfully carried out the first ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia transfer at the anchorage of Port Dampier, in Western Australia. The operation simulated real conditions of maritime fuel supply, aiming to demonstrate that ammonia transfer is safe and efficient in offshore environments. This innovative operation not only reinforces the viability of ammonia as an alternative marine fuel, but also marks a decisive step towards more sustainable shipping.
In this process, Yara Clean Ammonia supplied the ammonia via MOL’s (Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, a major Japanese shipping company) gas carrier Green Pioneer to another gas carrier from the same company. Yara contributed its technical expertise in safety studies, risk assessment and emergency response planning. The ammonia was produced at the Karratha plant (in Western Australia), which has an annual production capacity of 850,000 metric tons, most of which is destined for export.
The initiative represents a significant breakthrough in maritime decarbonisation, with ammonia transfer as a marine fuel.
Project Objectives
The main goal is to demonstrate the technical viability and safety of ammonia transfer as a marine fuel in offshore operations, creating a precedent for future commercial operations. In addition, it aims to promote ammonia as a clean alternative for the maritime sector, with zero or near-zero emissions, contributing to the decarbonisation of the industry.
Through this initiative, the project lays the groundwork for a more robust ammonia supply chain that could eventually enable widespread adoption of ammonia as a sustainable energy source in maritime transport.
Publication Date
June 26th 2025
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