NH3 Clean Energy earmarks land for clean ammonia project at Port of Dampier

Australia’s NH3 Clean Energy has taken a significant step forward by signing a commitment agreement with the Pilbara Ports Authority. This agreement paves the way for NH3 to lease approximately 7.5 hectares of land at the Port of Dampier, which will support its ambitious WAH2 clean ammonia project. The lease is expected to be finalized by March 2027, enhancing operational capabilities for ammonia loading and storage.

Strategic Partnership for Clean Energy Development

The commitment agreement between NH3 Clean Energy and Pilbara Ports Authority marks a crucial milestone in the development of the WAH2 project. The designated land will be utilized for ammonia storage buffering near the Port of Dampier Bulk Liquids Berth. This strategic location is anticipated to provide significant operational flexibility and expansion opportunities for the project, which aims to supply low-emissions ammonia to decarbonizing economies in the Asia Pacific region, including Japan and South Korea.

NH3’s Chairman, Charles Whitfield, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Pilbara Ports continues to be a valuable and forward-looking partner in the development of the clean ammonia business both for bunkering and access to the international market.” He noted that while NH3 has sufficient land for multiple expansion phases at its Maitland SIA site, the scarcity of appropriate land at the Port of Dampier makes this lease particularly beneficial for both initial operations and future capacity expansion.

This agreement builds on existing collaborations between NH3 and Pilbara Ports, which include arrangements for the shipment of clean ammonia and the establishment of clean ammonia bunkering operations at the port. The WAH2 project is positioned to play a vital role in the transition to cleaner energy sources, providing decarbonized bunker fuel for bulk carriers transporting iron ore from Australia to Asia.

Future Prospects and Project Timeline

NH3 Clean Energy has recently initiated the front-end engineering and design (FEED) phase for the WAH2 project. The company is also advancing discussions regarding the construction and operation of the facility, as well as exploring self-financing options. A final investment decision (FID) is anticipated by late 2026, marking a critical point in the project’s development timeline.

Overview of the ship-to-ship ammonia transfers in Pilbara Ports

As NH3 Clean Energy progresses with its plans, the collaboration with Pilbara Ports Authority is expected to enhance the project’s viability and operational efficiency. The WAH2 project not only aims to contribute to the decarbonization efforts in the Asia Pacific region but also positions Australia as a key player in the global clean ammonia market.