Navigating the Future: Strategies for Secure and Sustainable Integration of Ammonia and Hydrogen Energy Sources

The shipping sector is progressively shifting towards carbon-neutral fuels, with ammonia and hydrogen emerging as viable alternatives. However, the absence of mandatory regulations for their utilization poses a challenge. DNV’s recent white paper,”Safe Introduction of Alternative Fuels – Focus on Ammonia and Hydrogen as Ship Fuels,” offers shipowners valuable insights and tools to navigate the changing regulatory surroundings while safely adopting these fuels.

Both hydrogen and ammonia present unique safety challenges that necessitate heightened attention to safety in ship design, construction, and operation. The current lack of specific international regulations for vessels powered by these fuels hinders their broader acceptance. Through this white paper, DNV seeks to assist clients in implementing these alternatives by enhancing predictability via classification rules and fostering early communication with Flag Administrations. the document also addresses pertinent safety issues while evaluating industry efforts aimed at ensuring the secure use of these fuels at sea.

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO Maritime at DNV remarked: “In our pursuit of decarbonization within maritime operations, there isn’t a worldwide solution. Hydrogen and ammonia are gaining traction as potential options; we are already witnessing an increase in newbuilding orders. To fully leverage the advantages of zero-carbon fuels, we require meticulous planning, technical know-how, enhanced training for seafarers, and stronger collaboration across the industry.”

DNV is spearheading various initiatives to promote the adoption of ammonia and hydrogen as marine fuel sources. These initiatives include projects like the Nordic Roadmap for Future Fuels initiative,the green Shipping Program,and MarHySafe joint development project.

Linda Hammer, Principal Engineer at DNV and lead author of the whitepaper emphasized: “For safe operations involving ships fueled by hydrogen or ammonia it is crucial that crews comprehend specific hazards associated with these fuels along with built-in safety features in designs. This will necessitate updates to safety management systems alongside detailed operational procedures;