Hanwha Ocean and HD HHI Secure Key Approvals for Ammonia Fuel Transition

Ship operators and manufacturers are taking significant strides towards decarbonizing the maritime industry, with recent approvals from classification societies paving the way for the transition to ammonia as a fuel source. Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) have made notable progress in this effort, securing key approvals from American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) that will facilitate the shift from liquefied natural gas (LNG) to ammonia for marine vessels.

Hanwha Ocean's Fuel Transition System

According to Container News, Hanwha Ocean has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from ABS for a fuel system that allows LNG carriers to transition from LNG to ammonia without the need to replace existing fuel tanks or systems. This approval was presented at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, highlighting Hanwha Ocean's commitment to developing flexible fuel solutions for the maritime industry. The system includes a multi-purpose fuel tank and an integrated fuel gas supply system, which can adapt to both LNG and ammonia, enabling a smoother transition towards more sustainable fuels. This is a significant step for Hanwha Ocean, as it positions the company to support the gradual shift towards ammonia as a cleaner fuel alternative.

ClassNK's 35,000 m³ LPG/ammonia Carrier

ClassNK, another leading classification society, has granted AiP to HD HHI for a new 35,000 m³ LPG/ammonia carrier. This vessel is designed to transport both LPG and ammonia, providing flexibility in the use of alternative fuels. The approval, presented at Gastech 2026, indicates ClassNK’s support for the development of versatile carriers that can handle multiple fuel types. This move by HD HHI is aimed at expanding the market for ammonia as a viable marine fuel, as the vessel will be able to meet the dual needs of different terminal requirements. The design of this carrier considers the operational and safety requirements at major terminals, ensuring that it can safely transport both LPG and ammonia in a mixed-fuel environment.

Absorbent Approvals for Ammonia Bunkering Vessels

ABS has awarded AiP to HD HHI and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for the basic design of a 22,000 cubic metre (CBM) bunkering vessel capable of supplying ammonia as marine fuel. This approval, announced at Gastech 2026, is the result of a joint development project initiated earlier this year. The bunkering vessel, which will be capable of providing ammonia as a fuel, will play a crucial role in the expanding infrastructure for ammonia bunkering. ABS reviewed the design’s general arrangement, machinery arrangement, ammonia cargo handling system, and fuel supply system, ensuring that the vessel meets all necessary safety and operational standards. This approval is significant for the shipping industry as it paves the way for the construction of ammonia bunkering infrastructure, essential for the uptake of ammonia as a marine fuel.

Operational Implications for Ship Operators

The practical consequences for ship operators are substantial. With these approvals, ship operators can now explore the transition from LNG to ammonia with greater confidence. The multi-purpose fuel system developed by Hanwha Ocean allows existing LNG carriers to make the switch without significant modifications, reducing the financial and logistical barriers to adopting ammonia as a cleaner fuel. Similarly, the 35,000 m³ LPG/ammonia carrier designed by HD HHI can provide a dual-fuel solution, catering to both current and future needs. The bunkering vessel, meanwhile, will facilitate the widespread adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel by ensuring reliable and safe delivery of the fuel to ships at various terminals. These developments are crucial steps towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly maritime industry, as operators look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising operational efficiency.