South Korean shipbuilding major HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) has obtained approvals in principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR) and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) for its ammonia cargo operation system and ammonia fuel supply system, which can be used in conjunction with LPG.
As reported, ammonia is gaining attention as an alternative fuel technology due to its carbon and sulfur-free emissions and ease of storage and transport, making it a strong candidate to support the International Maritime Organization’s 2050 Net-Zero target.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), ammonia will comprise 46% of all ship fuels by 2050. Demand for its transportation is also said to be growing as it serves as a “carrier” for hydrogen.
Kim Sung-Joon, CEO & Senior Executive Vice President of SD Business at HD KSOE, commented: “Ammonia is likely to be essential for achieving carbon neutrality in the long term, and we will maintain a leading position in the upcoming ammonia fuel propulsion ship market based on our current technological superiority.”
Jung Sik Kim, Managing Director of LISCR Korea, stated that “the development of both ammonia cargo operation and ammonia fuel supply systems confirms HD KSOE’s leading position to accelerate the maritime industry’s pursuit towards net-zero GHG emissions for international shipping. The Liberian Registry is proud to have awarded two Approvals in Principle and one Factual Statement to HD KSOE with great support and collaboration with LR. Congratulations to HD KSOE for this achievement.”
In related news, HD KSOE, in collaboration with ship designer Robert Allan, received an AiP from ABS for an escort tug with a methanol dual-fuel (DF) hybrid propulsion system.
The certification was awarded for the RAstar 3500-W escort tug developed by HD KSOE and Robert Allan as part of their joint project that includes three different types of tugboats.
HD KSOE said at the time: “This achievement underscores HD KSOE’s commitment to advancing sustainable shipbuilding solutions and addressing the growing demand for low-emission vessels in the maritime industry.”