What's Happening?
The Apollo project is set to begin the conversion of the platform supply vessel Viking Energy to ammonia-fueled propulsion. Eidesvik Offshore, the vessel's owner, has signed an agreement with Halsnøy Dokk to complete the conversion by fall. Viking Energy,
currently operating in the North Sea, will become the first offshore vessel in commercial service to use ammonia as fuel. The project, supported by Equinor and part of an EU-sponsored initiative, aims to demonstrate the viability of ammonia as a maritime fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Why It's Important?
The conversion of Viking Energy represents a significant step towards sustainable maritime operations. Ammonia is considered a promising alternative fuel due to its potential to reduce emissions and its availability as a byproduct of existing industrial processes. The project aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and supports the maritime industry's goal of achieving zero-emission operations. Successful implementation could pave the way for wider adoption of ammonia as a fuel, influencing future ship designs and regulatory frameworks.
What's Next?
The conversion process will involve major structural modifications and the installation of a new ammonia dual-fuel engine. Testing and commissioning will follow the completion of the conversion. The project will provide valuable insights into the technical and operational challenges of using ammonia as a fuel, informing future developments in the maritime industry. As more ammonia-ready ships are ordered, the industry will continue to explore the potential of alternative fuels, contributing to the reduction of the maritime sector's environmental impact.
