A project has started in Denmark, with the aim of developing a new ammonia genset, without the need for pilot fuel. This project is led by MAN Energy Solutions‘ Holeby plant, under the title‘NH3 Spark – FutureFlex‘ represents a new stage in electrification with green fuels.
Ammonia genset technology
The initiative is supported by EUDP, the Danish state program for the development of energy technologies. It brings together the technical expertise of MANs technical expertise, the research capabilities of the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and the sustainable approach of Skovgaard Energy. The goal is clear: a four-stroke genset that runs on ammonia alone or also on other low-emission biofuels.
The first stage will start in the third quarter of 2025 with tests on a MAN single-cylinder engine at the DTU Construct facility. It will then be scaled up to real-world conditions at Skovgaard Energy’s green ammonia production plant. This development seeks compatibility with existing GenSet engine retrofit and modernization systems present in thousands of vessels and power plants.
Warley Thomsen, R&D specialist at MAN, pointed out that this technology can be applied to both new vessels and existing installations, without depending on the predominant fuel type in the future. The FutureFlex model prioritizes ease of retrofitting, cost efficiency and low emissions.
The project has the conceptual backing of the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, as well as support from companies such as DFDS and Hafnia. A classification society will also be integrated in future stages to ensure regulatory and technical feasibility of the green engine.
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Source and photo: MAN Energy Solutions
