In Singapore, Splash 24/7 reports Mitsui OSK Lines, the Tokyo-based maritime giant, has contracted four new ammonia dual-fuel newcastlemax bulk carriers, each with a 210,000 dwt capacity, from CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding in China. These vessels, scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028, are part of an ambitious expansion, contrasting with earlier orders of three LNG-fueled bulkers in late 2023 at $83 million each. The new ammonia-fueled ships carry a higher price tag, adding $10 million more per unit.
This strategic shift to ammonia fuel aligns with MOL’s ongoing exploration of alternative fuels, marked by early 2023 approvals for a newcastlemax vessel design from ClassNK, developed jointly with Mitsui & Co and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding. With these latest additions, MOL’s portfolio now includes 14 dual-fuel newcastlemax projects spread across Qingdao Beihai and domestic shipyards Nihon and Imabai.
The move reflects a broader industry trend towards adopting more environmentally friendly technologies, with other prominent shipping companies like Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Eastern Pacific Shipping, Berge Bulk, and Compagnie Maritime Belge also investing in newcastlemax vessels with dual-fuel capabilities or ammonia-ready configurations.
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Tags: ammonia, Japan, Mitsui OSK Lines
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
