Eastern Pacific Shipping has achieved a significant milestone with its very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) Terra Clove becoming the first vessel to be bunkered with green ammonia at Ulsan port, South Korea. This event underscores the growing commitment within the maritime sector to adopt alternative fuels, particularly in light of regulatory pressures and environmental objectives.
The Bunkering Operation
The green ammonia used for the bunkering was produced at Envision Energy’s green ammonia plant located in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia. The physical delivery to Terra Clove was facilitated by South Korean supplier Lotte Fine Chemical. This initiative aligns with broader industry efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance towards decarbonization.
Production Capacity Growth
Envision Energy’s current production capacity at its Chifeng plant stands at 320,000 metric tons per year, with plans to expand this capacity to an impressive 1.52 million metric tons annually. Such expansion signifies increasing supply readiness as maritime operators transition to green fuels.
Technical Specifications of Terra Clove
Equipped with an Everllence dual-fuel ammonia two-stroke engine, Terra Clove has been tested to operate on a fuel mix comprising 95% ammonia and 5% diesel pilot fuel. This technical advancement reflects the industry’s investment in innovative technologies capable of running on cleaner energy sources.
Behind the Headline
This development is a pivotal step in maritime fuel evolution, with operators like Eastern Pacific Shipping positioning themselves at the forefront of sustainable shipping practices. The embrace of green ammonia, coupled with advancements in dual-fuel engine technology, may influence charter agreements and operational protocols as the industry adapts to environmental standards. Continuous monitoring of ammonia supply chains and market reactions to such initiatives will be essential, as operators navigate the complexities of integrating green fuels into their logistics and operational frameworks.
