Port of Southampton welcomes dual-fuel ammonia powered vessel

The Port of Southampton has welcomed Fortescue Green Pioneer, the world’s first dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel.

Port of Southampton welcomes dual-fuel ammonia powered vessel

Fortescue Green Pioneer is a collaboration between Fortescue and major maritime players to show the viability of ammonia as a sustainable marine fuel.

Fortescue Green Pioneer left Singapore for the UK in January after receiving multiple safety honours and prizes during its testing in Singapore last year.

The vessel’s visit to Southampton will reportedly allow the UK to investigate the viability of ammonia-fueled vessels for operation in European waters.

Additionally, Associated British Ports (ABP) noted that the vessel will be in Southampton for five days to undergo regulatory checks.

The visit will highlight novel fuel technology and illustrate the vessel’s operating safety, regulatory compliance, and crew training for ammonia-powered ships.

Harbour Master for the Port of Southampton Steve Masters, said: “We are proud that Fortescue Green Pioneer has chosen Southampton as its first port of call in Europe. I have been closely collaborating with the team on board and the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure they have everything necessary in order to carry out demonstrations of the vessel.”

MCA Director of UK Customer Services, Lars Lippuner, stated: “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.”

Fortescue Executive Chairman and Founder, Dr Andrew Forrest AO, said: “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 (IMO) 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. This opportunity cannot be missed.”

In October 2024, Lloyd’s Register (LR) and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) signed an approval in principle (AiP) for a 15,300 TEU Class ammonia-powered dual-fuel containership under a joint development project (JDP).