The Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands has completed an ammonia bunkering pilot.

The trial involved the transfer of 800m³ of liquid ammonia at -33°C between two vessels at the Maasvlakte 2 APM terminal.

It is a preparatory step for the anticipated arrival of ships using ammonia as a bunker fuel, expected in 2026 or 2027.

The pilot utilised grey ammonia, which possesses the same chemical characteristics as clean ammonia, highlighting its potential role in the decarbonisation of shipping.

The bunkering pilot was a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders, including Trammo, OCI, and James Fisher Fendercare.

OCI, which operates the ammonia terminal at the port, partnered with Trammo to supply the tankers for the operation.

James Fisher Fendercare provided the necessary equipment and expertise for the safe transfer at the designated berth.

Additionally, the DCMR Environmental Protection Agency, Rijnmond Safety Region, and the Joint Fire Service were engaged to oversee safety measures during the pilot.

The Port of Rotterdam employs the Port Readiness Level assessment tool to prepare for new marine fuels.

Following the pilot, the port's readiness level for ammonia bunkering has been elevated to level seven, indicating that all safety procedures are in place for project-based bunkering.

The demonstration confirmed the port's safety framework for ammonia bunkering, ensuring that the process can be executed safely without ammonia release, the Port of Rotterdam stated.

The insights gained from this pilot will be shared with the European Union (EU) and other ports to promote best practices.

The ammonia bunkering pilot is part of the European MAGPIE programme, which includes various ports, research institutions, and companies and aims to enhance innovation and sustainability in port operations.

The MAGPIE initiative is supported by funding from the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme, with the R&D Center Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping contributing to knowledge dissemination.

Last month, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) signed a cooperation agreement with the Port of Rotterdam to strengthen their collaboration on the Rotterdam-Singapore Green and Digital Shipping Corridor.

This follows an initial memorandum of understanding signed in August 2022 to establish the corridor.