Freight News, Sea


Britain welcomes world’s first dual-fuelled ammonia-powered ship

[ March 5, 2025   //   ]

The UK world’s first dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel made a tour of British ports in early March.

The Singapore-flagged vessel Fortescue Green Pioneer arrived in Southampton to demonstrate the viability of ammonia as a sustainable, zero-emission marine fuel. The vessel is the first of its kind, powered by a four-stroke engine, two of which are capable of being fuelled by ammonia and diesel.

Fortesque is an Australian-based mining company and operates a fleet of iron ore carriers worldwide, although the Green Pioneer, a former offshore supply vessel, is considerably smaller than these giant bulkers.

The vessel owner has been working with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to ensure full compliance with UK regulatory requirements with Port State Control inspections carried out by the MCA’s Survey and Inspection team.

The vessel was then due travel to West India Dock in London, operated by Canal and River Trust, to showcase its technology and capabilities to key maritime stakeholders, partners and the public.

Maritime Minister Mike Kane said: “It’s great to welcome this pioneering, first-of-a-kind vessel to UK shores – this is exactly the kind of innovation that will drive forward decarbonisation in the shipping sector. Through our UK SHORE programme, we are committed to supporting the technology and alternative fuels needed to make zero-emission shipping a reality and establishing the UK as a clean energy superpower.

MCA director of UK Customer Services Lars Lippuner added: “Decarbonisation in the maritime sector is a huge priority for the UK and shipping, and Fortescue Green Pioneer successfully demonstrates what a future of cleaner shipping could look like. The MCA will conduct thorough inspections and checks to ensure the vessel’s safety and operational readiness for its onward journey. It has been a pleasure working in collaboration with Fortescue to bring this innovative vessel to Europe.”

Fortescue executive chairman and founder, Dr Andrew Forrest, said: “We have brought the Fortescue Green Pioneer to the UK to deliver a simple message: This vessel encapsulates the innovation and character that has defined Fortescue’s mission to lead the world beyond fossil fuels.

“Over the coming months, global shipping regulators at the International Maritime Organization have the chance to fast-track shipping’s move away from dirty bunker fuel and embrace real zero fuel standards. With the right character and leadership, they can chart a course towards a more sustainable future for the planet and advance a dramatic reduction in shipping costs through the widespread adoption and scaling of renewable sources.”

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