AiP for SeaTech’s 21000 CBM Ammonia Bunker Tanker design from RINA
In a significant leap towards decarbonizing the marine industry, RINA granted an Approval-in-Principle (AiP) for the SeaTech design developed for Fratelli Cosulich Bunkers Singapore. The project focuses on designing a 21,000 cubic meter ammonia bunker tanker will play a pivotal role in Singapore’s supply chain for alternative green fuels in the shipping industry’s decarbonization efforts.
Ammonia, with its low or zero-carbon properties, holds great promise as a sustainable alternative fuel. With an increasing number of ammonia-ready newbuild orders, the demand for ammonia bunkers is expected to rise.
The AiP for the ammonia bunker tanker design adhered to the comprehensive evaluation process of Class “RINA Guide for Approval in Principle of Novel Technologies.” This assessment was based on the technical criteria defined in the RINA Rules for the Classification of Ships (2023), IGF Code, and IGC Code, incorporating the latest amendments. The AiP Certificate was presented to SeaTech Solutions at the esteemed Sea Asia Exhibition 2023 held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Following this ceremony, a session ensued where representatives from all three companies engaged in insightful discussions, sharing valuable information about the project’s development, safety considerations, upstream factors, regulatory requirements, as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with the initiative.
The successful attainment of the AiP represents a significant milestone for the joint development project, which commenced in November 2021. With this critical milestone achieved, all collaborating parties express their unwavering confidence in their ability to support Singapore’s ambitious vision of establishing ammonia bunkering as a practical reality in the region. This accomplishment showcases their commitment to driving sustainable advancements and revolutionizing the maritime landscape.
By embracing this innovative solution, the marine industry takes a another step towards achieving decarbonization objectives and fostering a greener and more sustainable future.
Simone Manca, Marine Asia Senior Director at RINA said, “Ammonia offers potential for the decarbonization of the marine sector, and this AiP brings the practicality of its use as an alternative fuel a step closer. We are delighted to be able to support this innovation. RINA will continue to follow technological and regulatory developments to meet the needs and expectations of the shipping industry and to promote all possible pathways to net zero.”
Guido Cardullo, Head of Business Development at Fratelli Cosulich said, “Fratelli Cosulich is committed to playing a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry by facilitating the adoption of low-carbon or carbon-free alternatives fuels, such as green ammonia, which has received much attention recently due to its established production technology, distribution infrastructure, and satisfactory energy density as a marine fuel. Fratelli Cosulich Group, through its subsidiary company Fratelli Cosulich Bunkers Singapore, is pleased to collaborate with RINA and SeaTech in establishing a secure and dependable ammonia bunkering service in Singapore.”
Prabjot Singh Chopra, VP (Technology) SeaTech Solutions said, “Embracing the multiple pathways to maritime decarbonisation creates new opportunities in the bunkering industry. Despite the challenges of designing an ammonia bunker vessel amidst evolving technology and regulations, we appreciate the invaluable operational insights shared by the Fratelli Cosulich team and the expert guidance provided by RINA Class. The AIP for the innovative and cost-effective design is a significant achievement in advancing the safety of ammonia bunkering in Singapore, marking a new milestone in the journey to decarbonisation.”
