In China, Sohu reports Eastern Pacific Shipping has scrapped plans to equip 14 ammonia-fueled bulk carriers with dual-fuel ammonia engines, opting instead for LNG systems due to stalled technology and infrastructure gaps. The vessels, under construction at Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding, were originally hailed as the world’s first ammonia dual-fuel bulkers.
EPS cited immature engine development, missing bunkering infrastructure, regulatory uncertainty, and cost concerns from charterers as reasons for the change. The company framed the switch as a tactical adjustment, not a retreat.
The ships will still be delivered with space reserved for future ammonia systems. The first is scheduled for handover in 2026. Despite the pivot, EPS said it will proceed with ammonia propulsion on four very large ammonia carriers (VLACs) under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard and HD Hyundai. Those vessels will use 60-cylinder first-generation engines from Everllence and are slated for delivery in 2027.
EPS CEO Cyril Ducau said the company would prioritize the VLACs to give shipyards and engine makers time to mature the technology. Meanwhile, Belgian shipowner CMB.Tech is moving forward with ten ammonia-fueled Newcastlemax bulkers at the same yard, with delivery expected between 2026 and 2027.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
