The recent successful ship-to-ship transfers of ammonia have positioned the Pilbara region to potentially become a leading ammonia bunkering hub. This development is a result of a collaborative effort between the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD), Pilbara Ports, and Yara Clean Ammonia (YCA) to establish Pilbara as a low-greenhouse gas (GHG) emission ammonia bunkering hub by 2025. The strategic move aims to leverage ammonia as a carbon-neutral maritime fuel with high energy density and readiness for combustion in engines or fuel cells.
On September 14, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved with the successful transfer of 4,000 cubic meters of ammonia between the vessels Green Pioneer and Navigator Global at the Port of Dampier. These ship-to-ship transfers showcased the potential for future bunkering operations in Pilbara, laying the groundwork for the region to lead in decarbonizing the world’s bulk shipping fleet.
The initiative also focused on safety measures, including emergency release couplings, shutdown devices, and purging procedures to ensure secure ammonia transfers. Collaborative efforts from Pilbara Ports, Yara Clean Ammonia, and GCMD included risk assessments, safety workshops, and regulatory support to prepare for potential ammonia bunkering operations in the region.
Overall, the successful ship-to-ship transfers mark a critical step towards establishing ammonia bunkering operations in Pilbara and advancing the use of ammonia as a green marine fuel. This achievement not only benefits the maritime sector but also positions the Pilbara region as a key player in the global shift towards sustainable shipping practices.
