In South Korea, Vinssen, Samsung Heavy Industries, and Amogy have signed a joint development agreement to create a carbon-free power system for ships using ammonia-to-hydrogen fuel cell technology. The system combines an ammonia cracker with a PEM fuel cell, producing electricity without combustion or carbon emissions.
Signed on January 22, the agreement targets the development and commercialization of a next-generation ship power unit to replace conventional diesel generators. The ammonia-based system is designed to match the size and output of existing marine engines, allowing installation without major design changes to large commercial vessels.
Ammonia serves as a hydrogen carrier, offering high storage density and easier liquefaction than hydrogen. The planned system will crack ammonia on board, feed the resulting hydrogen into a fuel cell, and generate electricity with zero CO₂ emissions.
“This collaboration marks a turning point in shifting ship propulsion away from internal combustion,” said Vinssen CEO Lee Chil-hwan. “Vinssen will continue contributing to high-value, zero-emission shipbuilding using our experience in marine hydrogen fuel cells.”
The partners expect the system to advance the timeline for fully carbon-free shipping and meet stricter environmental regulations from the International Maritime Organization.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
