The NYK Group, in collaboration with IHI Power Systems and Nippon Kaiji Kyokai(ClassNK), have completed the construction of the Sakigake tugboat, the world’s first ammonia-powered vessel, the “Sakigake”, for commercial purposes and purposes.
The world’s first commercial ammonia-fueled ship
This innovative vessel, which began as a project of Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization(NEDO) Green Innovation Fund. The tug Sakigake, which was originally launched in 2015 as Japan’s first liquefied natural gas(LNG)-powered vessel, has been converted to operate on ammonia, an alternative fuel that“emits no carbon dioxide” during combustion.
This retrofit was performed at Keihin Dock, a subsidiary of NYK, where the original engine was replaced with one specifically designed to run on ammonia. The completion of the Sakigake underscores NYK’s commitment to sustainable innovation and its leadership in the adoption of green technologies.
For the next three months, the vessel will be operated by Shin-Nippon Kaiyosha, another NYK Group company, in Tokyo Bay as part of a detailed demonstration and testing period.“We expect the Sakigake to be a pioneer in the use of ammonia as a marine fuel, just as it was previously with LNG,” commented a NYK spokesman.
This project is part of a larger effort by NYK to decarbonize the shipping industry, with plans to develop and deploy more ammonia-fueled vessels in the coming years. NYK Line is also currently collaborating with Japan Engine Corporation, Nihon Shipyard, IHI Power Systems and ClassNK on the development of an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier(AFMGC), scheduled for delivery in November 2026.
The use of ammonia as fuel is seen as a promising solution for decarbonization, as it produces no carbon emissions. The conversion of the Sakigake and its implementation in commercial operations reinforces NYK ‘s ability to lead the transition to a more sustainable maritime fleet.
“We will continue to use the knowledge gained through research and development of vessels such as the Sakigake to promote and expand the use of ammonia as a fuel in our future projects.”
A NYK representative stated.
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Source and photo: NYK Line
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