In a strategic step toward maritime decarbonization, NH3 Clean Energy Limited, Pilbara Ports Authority, and Oceania Marine Energy have signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to develop low-emission ammonia bunkering operations at the Port of Dampier by 2030. The collaboration will serve large iron ore carriers and support the decarbonisation of the critical Pilbara-Asia maritime corridor, one of the world’s busiest bulk export routes.
Coordinated Clean Fuel Strategy at Port of Dampier
The JDA outlines a framework where each party plays a defined role in creating a safe and efficient ammonia bunkering operation. Pilbara Ports Authority will handle port safety, licensing, and operational control, while NH3 will supply low-emissions ammonia from its WAH2 Project, and Oceania will operate bunker vessels to enable ship-to-ship transfers.
The agreement also includes a detailed scope of work and timeline to confirm technical feasibility, gain environmental and regulatory approvals, and finalize investment agreements by end of 2026.
Building a Scalable, Global-Impact Operation
With approximately 4,000 vessel visits and over 1,000 distinct bulk carriers docking annually, the Pilbara region offers the ideal conditions for launching clean marine fuel infrastructure.
Sam McSkimming, CEO of Pilbara Ports, emphasized the region’s readiness: “With approximately 4,000 vessel visits associated with bulk exports and more than 1,000 distinct bulk carriers visiting our ports annually, the Pilbara is a natural beachhead to kick start the clean fuel transition,” he highlighted. “The green iron corridor between the Pilbara and East Asia has the scale, stable demand, port infrastructure, and risk management experience to support the significant investment that maritime decarbonization requires.”
This scalable initiative is expected to drive significant emissions reductions and set a precedent for clean maritime corridors globally.
Future Path to Global Clean Fuel Leadership
The JDA builds on NH3’s previous Memoranda of Understanding with both Oceania and Pilbara Ports. Charles Whitfield, Chairman of NH3, sees this agreement as a turning point for Western Australia: “The scale of the Pilbara-Asia maritime corridor creates a globally significant opportunity to reduce GHG emissions, and NH3 is extremely excited to join with Pilbara Ports Authority and Oceania with the aim of making this a reality. We look forward to being able to make more announcements around the WAH2 Project in the coming months.”
Nick Bentley, Managing Director of Oceania, added that this partnership lays a strong foundation for a world-class ammonia bunkering capability, placing Australia at the forefront of global efforts to decarbonize shipping before 2030.
The collaboration between NH3, Pilbara Ports Authority, and Oceania Marine Energy marks a bold and practical step toward a cleaner maritime future. With clear roles, a structured timeline, and high strategic value, the Port of Dampier is set to become a key node in the global ammonia bunkering network — serving as both a model and a driver for the global energy transition in shipping.
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Source: SEA NEWS
