Brooklyn, New York-based Amogy Inc., has set itself an ambitious task to demonstrate the world's first ammonia-powered ship before this year comes to a close. If successful, it could begin the rollout of commercial vessels next year, aThe world of maritime transportation finds itself in a tight spot. Responsible for three percent of global carbon emissions, the industry is keen to switch to a greener means of transportation.
The boat that Amogy has selected was built in 1957 and uses diesel generators to power its electric engines. The company plans to replace the diesel generator with an ammonia one. What makes it even unique is that the 1 megawatt generator has thrice the output used for the semi-truck demonstration.
Ammonia may not be as energy-dense as diesel, but its combustion does not lead to carbon emissions. Currently, its generation is a source of emissions, but efforts are underway to produce greener ammonia shortly.The company's plans to unveil the world's first ammonia-powered vessel can be thwarted by other companies who have previously moved to do the same.. Fortescue Future Industries has set itself a 2022 target so that an announcement might be on the cards.
It does not matter who clenches the world's first title; the need of the hour is multiple innovations to rid maritime transport of its emissions. Each contribution will play a role if we want to achieve this target by 2050 or earlier.