Global engineering firm Ricardo has concluded a feasibility study focused on utilizing ammonia as a future fuel within the maritime industry. This research was conducted under the FASTMOVE (Feasibility of Ammonia 4-Stroke Marine engines in Offshore Vessels) project. The consortium, which included Brunel University of London and the Port of Cromarty Firth, aimed to assess ammonia's potential to support decarbonization across the marine sector. A key objective was to gather insights for the design of a new generation of ammonia combustion engines, leveraging Ricardo's extensive experience in combustion engineering and the maritime domain.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, developments in alternative marine fuels like ammonia are crucial for understanding future shipping costs and compliance requirements. As carriers invest in dual-fuel vessels, the availability and pricing of green ammonia will directly influence bunker surcharges and the overall cost of ocean freight. This study contributes to the long-term shift towards sustainable shipping, potentially impacting vessel deployment, routing decisions, and the selection of compliant carriers as new regulations and fuel options emerge.
