Tokyo Bay Welcomes World's First Commercial Ammonia-Fueled Tugboat
The maritime industry has taken a significant step towards decarbonization with the launch of the world's first commercially operational ammonia-fueled tugboat in Tokyo Bay. The vessel, named *Sakigake*, was unveiled on Friday and will undergo a three-month demonstration period, marking a landmark achievement in the quest for cleaner shipping.
The *Sakigake
is the result of a collaborative effort between NYK, IHI Power Systems, and ClassNK, all working under the umbrella of Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) Green Innovation Fund Project. This initiative, launched in October 2021, aims to develop vessels powered by domestically produced ammonia-fueled engines, paving the way for a more sustainable future in maritime transportation.
Interestingly, the *Sakigake
is not a newly built vessel but a repurposed one. Its predecessor, also named *Sakigake*, served as Japan's first LNG-fueled vessel, entering service in August 2015. After eight years of operation, it underwent a transformation at NYK Group's Keihin Dock Co., where its main engine was replaced with an ammonia-powered one. This innovative approach showcases the potential for retrofitting existing vessels with cleaner fuel technology.
NYK's ambition extends beyond tugboats. The company is currently developing an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier (AFMGC) in partnership with other Japanese corporations. Scheduled for delivery in November 2026, this vessel will further expand the reach of ammonia-fueled technology in the shipping industry, highlighting NYK's commitment to sustainable solutions.
The *Sakigake
serves as a tangible demonstration of NYK Group's commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of the maritime industry. The company plans to use the lessons learned from this project to promote and expand the use of ammonia-fueled vessels, contributing significantly to the industry's overall decarbonization efforts. The successful launch of the *Sakigake* signifies a crucial step in the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for maritime transport.
