ABS delivers new EMSA report on ammonia fuel safety

An ABS-led consortium has delivered a new report on the safety of ammonia as a marine fuel commissioned and published by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). Other consortium members included the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and the Fundación Valenciaport.

“ABS remains committed to supporting the maritime industry as it navigates future energy options such as ammonia as marine fuel,” said Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS EVP and CCO, :This latest report for EMSA reflects our close collaboration with industry stakeholders and academia to provide critical information to advance the discussions around low- and zero-carbon operations for the future.”

Based on the insights gained from the study, the EMSA report includes recommendations that expand on existing interim guidelines from the International Maritime Organization for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel. Through a survey and online workshop, industry stakeholders communicated feedback that emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of ammonia’s properties to effectively mitigate the safety risks associated with its use as a marine fuel.

“Exploring pathways toward more environmentally sustainable maritime transport is essential for society, but it must always be pursued with safety as the highest priority,” said Professor Nikolaos P. Ventikos of NTUA. “This is why the role of organizations such as EMSA is so important. By funding rigorous research and making its results publicly available, they enable informed decision-making across the entire maritime community. For NTUA, as a university deeply committed to open science, it is particularly meaningful to facilitate and carry out risk assessment studies, such as HAZOP, that are traditionally confidential.”

Josep Sanz-Argent, director of energy transition and sustainability at Fundación Valenciaport, said: “Ammonia will play a key role in the decarbonization of the maritime sector and ports must prepare for bunkering operations to be carried out safely within their jurisdiction. The results of the study will contribute significantly to preparing that future.”

• Read the collection of EMSA reports on the of safety of ammonia for use in ships HERE

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