DNV Releases White Paper On Safe Adoption Of Ammonia And Hydrogen As Ship Fuels

As the maritime industry moves toward carbon-neutral fuels, ammonia and hydrogen are emerging as potential options. However, the absence of mandatory international regulations remains a challenge for their widespread adoption.

DNV’s latest white paper, Safe Introduction of Alternative Fuels – Focus on Ammonia and Hydrogen as Ship Fuels, provides shipowners with guidance on navigating regulatory uncertainty and ensuring the safe implementation of these fuels.

Key Insights from the White Paper

• Safety Challenges:

  • Both hydrogen and ammonia present new safety risks, requiring enhanced ship design, construction, and operational procedures.
  • Proper crew training and organizational updates are essential for safe handling.

• Regulatory and Classification Support:

  • DNV has developed classification rules to provide predictability for owners, designers, and shipyards.
  • Ammonia-fuelled ship rules were introduced in 2021, while hydrogen-fuelled ship rules were published in July 2024.
  • DNV advocates early engagement with Flag Administrations to facilitate regulatory approval.

• Industry Collaboration & Training:

  • DNV leads initiatives like:
    • Nordic Roadmap for Future Fuels
    • Green Shipping Programme
    • MarHySafe Joint Development Project
  • The white paper emphasizes upskilling seafarers, updating safety management systems, and developing detailed operational procedures.

Industry Perspectives

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO Maritime, DNV:

 “In Maritime’s journey towards decarbonization, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Hydrogen and ammonia are emerging as possible solutions, and we are already seeing a growing newbuilding orderbook. To scale them up and get the benefits of the zero-carbon fuels, we will need, careful planning, technical expertise, upskilling of seafarers and deeper collaboration across the industry and beyond.”

Linda Hammer, Principal Engineer, DNV:

“To safely operate ships using hydrogen or ammonia as fuel, ensuring that the crew understands the specific hazards of these fuels and the safety features built into the design is vital. This will require updates to the safety management system, building in detailed operating procedures, comprehensive training for up-skilling personnel, and potentially making organizational changes. All of which are essential for developing a robust safety culture throughout the organization.”

With regulatory clarity evolving, DNV’s white paper serves as a critical resource for shipowners, supporting a safe, efficient transition to zero-carbon fuels.