MOL orders ammonia dual-fuel bulk carrier duo in China

As part of its commitment to boost decarbonization progress, Japanese shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has placed an order for two ammonia dual-fuel bulk carriers.

The vessels, each with a deadweight tonnage (dwt) of 210,000, will be built at China’s Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding. These eco-friendly bulkers are priced at $93 million each, according to the information provided by Intermodal.

They are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028.

The vessels are part of MOL’s ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its fleet and align with global efforts to decarbonize the maritime industry. The company has recognized ammonia as a promising alternative fuel and a viable option for achieving net-zero emissions in shipping.

Last year, MOL, together with compatriot trading and investment company Mitsui & Co., received approval in principle (AiP) from classification society ClassNK for the design of a large ammonia-powered bulk carrier.

Specifically, the approval was granted for a 210,000 dwt Capesize bulker, which will be powered by an ammonia-fueled main engine. The vessel will feature two ammonia fuel tanks on deck to maximize cruising range and optimize cargo space. MOL and Mitsui jointly defined the ship’s size and specifications, with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding entrusted to handle its design.

Meanwhile, the company also obtained approval from ClassNK for the design of a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) for ammonia. The design process was carried out in collaboration with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding.

The MOL Group set mid-to-long-term targets to reduce GHG emissions intensity in marine transport by approximately 45% by 2035 (i.e. versus 2019) and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through five strategies, which include boosting operational efficiency in MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.1.