Port of Rotterdam Takes Important Step In Making Shipping
Rotterdam Achieves Milestone in Ammonia Bunkering
On April 12, 2025, a significant pilot project for ammonia bunkering was successfully executed at the Port of Rotterdam, involving key players Trammo, OCI, and James Fisher Fendercare. This initiative marks a pivotal advancement in the port’s preparations for accommodating vessels that will utilize clean ammonia as a fuel source. With the first ammonia-fueled ships anticipated to arrive by 2026 or 2027, this pilot underscores the port’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices.
Successful Pilot Demonstrates Safety and Efficiency
The ammonia bunkering pilot involved the transfer of 800 cubic meters of liquid ammonia at a chilling temperature of -33 degrees Celsius between two vessels. This operation, which took approximately 2.5 hours, was conducted at the new quay of the Maasvlakte 2 APM terminal. The successful transfer not only validated the safety protocols established by the Port of Rotterdam but also confirmed that ammonia can be handled safely without any emissions during the process.
Collaboration was key to the pilot’s success. The Port of Rotterdam Authority facilitated the project, with OCI providing the ammonia terminal and Trammo supplying the tankers. James Fisher Fendercare contributed essential equipment and expertise to ensure a safe ship-to-ship transfer. Additionally, the operation was supported by the DCMR Environmental Protection Agency, Rijnmond Safety Region, and the Joint Fire Service, all of which played crucial roles in maintaining safety standards throughout the pilot.
As the second-largest bunker port globally, Rotterdam handles around ten million tonnes of fuel annually. The Port Authority aims to expand its capabilities to include all alternative low-carbon fuels, enhancing sustainability in international shipping. The pilot utilized grey ammonia, which possesses the same chemical properties as clean ammonia, highlighting the potential for ammonia to significantly contribute to the decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Preparing for a Sustainable Future
The Port of Rotterdam is actively preparing for a multi-fuel future by employing the international Port Readiness Level assessment tool. This framework ensures that all regulatory, safety, infrastructural, and supply factors are addressed before new marine fuels are introduced. The pilot project has successfully elevated the port’s readiness level for ammonia bunkering to level 7, indicating that all necessary safety procedures are in place for future operations.
Looking ahead, the port plans to disseminate the insights gained from this pilot to other European ports and relevant stakeholders. The European MAGPIE programme, which focuses on innovation and sustainability in ports, is also involved in this initiative. Funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, MAGPIE aims to enhance the efficiency of logistics and promote the use of green energy in port operations. The collaboration with the R&D Center Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping will further drive the sharing of knowledge and experiences gained from the ammonia bunkering pilot with the global community.
