Ammonia is gaining significant attention as a potential future fuel for the shipping industry due to its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Society for Gas as Marine Fuel (SGMF), a prominent advocate for zero/low carbon marine fuels, actively collaborates with industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and experts to develop comprehensive guidelines for the safe and efficient bunkering of ammonia.
The SGMF Ammonia workgroup, led by Prasad Nayak from Anglo-Eastern, held two crucial meetings this year to develop ammonia bunkering guidelines. The first meeting, organised by AESM Belgium in partnership with Compagnie Maritime Belge, Bocimar, took place in January. The second meeting, hosted by CMA CGM at their headquarters in Marseilles, France, was conducted in mid-April. These meetings were held to develop guidelines for the safe and efficient bunkering of ammonia as a marine fuel.
These guidelines encompass various critical aspects, including safety procedures, equipment standards, training requirements, and regulatory compliance. Given the unique properties and potential hazards associated with ammonia, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines to ensure safe handling and bunkering procedures.