South Gyeongsang Province Launches Korea's First Ammonia-Mixed Fuel Propulsion Ship for Eco-Friendly Shipping

In a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of the shipping industry, South Gyeongsang Province has launched Korea’s first ammonia-mixed fuel propulsion ship, a key initiative in the country's efforts to develop eco-friendly maritime technologies. The vessel was unveiled on November 27 at EK Heavy Industries' shipyard in Goseong, Gyeongsangnam-do, marking a milestone in the region's ambition to lead the way in sustainable shipping solutions.

The ship, which measures 36 meters in length, 11 meters in width, and weighs 500 tons, is equipped with a cutting-edge ammonia and fossil fuel hybrid propulsion system. This system is designed to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions, a critical step in meeting the global demand for cleaner shipping technologies. Ammonia is known for its potential as a zero-carbon fuel when used in combustion. When combined with fossil fuels in the system, it offers a promising alternative to traditional marine fuels that are responsible for substantial greenhouse gas emissions.

The ship is scheduled for a series of maritime demonstrations starting in January 2025. Over the course of 500 hours at sea, these tests will evaluate the performance, stability, and safety of the ship’s innovative fuel system. This demonstration period will provide valuable data to refine and improve the technologies involved, with the goal of enhancing the regulatory framework for ammonia-mixed fuel propulsion in maritime operations.

The project is part of South Gyeongsang Province's broader commitment to eco-friendly shipping technologies, supported by a special designation as a "special ship zone" from 2022 to 2026. In August 2022, the province announced an investment of 31.6 billion won to develop the ammonia-mixed fuel propulsion system. This initiative is part of the province's efforts to position itself as a leader in green shipping technologies and ensure compliance with stricter international maritime environmental regulations.

The ammonia-mixed fuel propulsion system has been developed through collaboration between 15 special zone operators, including EK Heavy Industries, Sunbo Industries, STX Engine, Hanwha Ocean Ecotech, and Gyeongnam Techno Park. These companies have worked together to develop crucial components such as engines, ammonia supply devices, and exhaust gas treatment systems that can safely and efficiently use ammonia in combination with diesel fuel.

This collaboration aims to tackle one of the shipping industry's most pressing challenges: reducing carbon emissions in response to increasingly stringent environmental regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). As countries around the world work to meet carbon-neutral goals, the shipping industry must adapt to new technologies that minimize the environmental footprint of maritime transport.

South Gyeongsang Province officials emphasized the importance of rigorous safety protocols during the commissioning and demonstration phases of the project.

"We expect the ammonia-diesel mixed fuel-powered ship to be a model that actively responds to the International Maritime Organization's maritime carbon-neutral environmental regulations," a South Gyeongsang Province official stated. "This project represents a crucial step toward a greener, more sustainable shipping industry."