Viridis Bulk Carriers has received approval from a second classification society for its design of the world’s first ammonia-fuelled bulker.
The Norwegian shipowner plans to build five 5,000-dwt shortsea bulk carriers that will run off the chemical to achieve zero-carbon shipping.
The company is a joint venture between Norwegian shipowner Mosvolds Rederi and its green shipping spin-off Amon Maritime, in partnership with Faroese owner Navigare Logistics.
Norwegian classification society DNV awarded Viridis an approval in principle (AiP) for the design on Thursday during the Nor-Shipping at the DNV stand.
An AiP is an independent assessment of a concept within an agreed framework that confirms that the design is feasible and has no significant obstacles to prevent the concept from being realised, DNV said.
French Classification society Bureau Veritas issued an AiP to Viridis in March for the design, which was developed by Kongsberg Maritime and will enable a range of 3,000 nautical miles.
“We are delighted with yet another milestone for our ammonia powered short sea bulk vessel,” Viridis board member Andre Risholm said in a statement.
“This is a clear testament to the hard work completed and are important for moving closer to the newbuilding phase.”
Viridis expects to place orders for ships this year and start taking deliveries in 2025.
DNV said its approval is “essential to wider adoption” of ammonia to fuel vessels.
“Building trust is vital as we look to develop the next generation of fuels,” Tuva Flagstad-Andersen, DNV’s manager for northern Europe, said in a statement.
“With these projects, we demonstrate how by working in collaboration, we can shape the future of shipping and advance towards a decarbonised and sustainable tomorrow.”
