Japan ammonia project links ships with fuel supply

Seven companies have agreed to develop an ammonia fuel supply chain in Japan’s Chubu region and to build four ammonia-fuelled car carriers. This project aims to develop an integrated ammonia fuel supply chain, from the procurement of green ammonia and development of shiploading facilities to the construction of a dedicated bunkering vessel, fuel supply and the operation of ammonia-fuelled PCTCs.

As part of the project, “K” LINE and NYK will introduce two ammonia-fuelled car carriers apiece, scheduled for completion in 2030. The vessels are expected to transport finished vehicles for customers including Toyota Motor Corporation.

The vessels will be Japan’s first ammonia-fuelled car carriers. They will be equipped with dual-fuel engines and fuel tanks capable of supporting transpacific voyages using ammonia fuel alone.

JERA will procure green ammonia, including supplies from India, develop loading facilities at the terminal adjacent to Hekinan thermal power station and supply fuel. Kyokuyo Shipyard will design and build the commercial ammonia bunkering vessel, which will be owned and operated by NYK or a wholly owned subsidiary. An equally owned joint venture between NYK and “K” Line will sell and supply ammonia fuel through ship-to-ship bunkering, primarily at Nagoya and Mikawa ports.

This story was originally published by Project Cargo Journal. Read the full story at Project Cargo Journal →