Equinor's Viking Energy: Pioneering Ammonia-Powered Ship for Cleaner Shipping
Key Ideas
  • Equinor's Viking Energy supply ship will be converted to run on 70% ammonia, reducing emissions by 70% when using renewable energy-produced ammonia in 2026.
  • The project supported by Wärtsilä is part of the EU's Apollo Project to showcase ammonia engines for waterborne transport, with plans for wider application in the shipping industry.
  • While green ammonia offers clean burning and emission reductions, its use poses safety challenges that require specialized measures including leak detection systems and rapid shutdown capabilities.
  • Investment of around US$2 trillion by 2050 is estimated to transition the international shipping industry to a green ammonia fuel supply chain to achieve net zero emissions per IMO goals.
Norwegian oil major Equinor has approved the conversion of its supply vessel, the Viking Energy, to run on ammonia fuel in a groundbreaking move for cleaner shipping. The ship will operate on a mixture of 70% ammonia, 29% LNG, and 1% marine gas oil, significantly reducing emissions when using green ammonia by 70%. This transformation, scheduled for 2026, aligns with Equinor's goal to cut maritime emissions by half in its Norwegian operations by 2030. The project, supported by Wärtsilä, is a cornerstone of the EU's Apollo Project, aimed at demonstrating the viability of ammonia engines for maritime transport. Despite the environmental benefits, the use of ammonia as a fuel presents safety challenges due to its toxicity and potential risks of fires and explosions. Lloyd’s Register recommended safety measures such as leak detection sensors and rapid shutdown capabilities. However, significant investment of approximately US$2 trillion will be required to establish a green ammonia fuel supply chain to meet the International Maritime Organization's target of achieving net zero international shipping by 2050. This transition would reshape the shipping fuel supply network towards a more regional model, favoring areas with abundant solar resources and proximity to major shipping hubs, as highlighted by experts at Oxford University.
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