MISC Berhad (MISC) and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have received the Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) for their pioneering design of the world’s first ammonia-fueled LR2 tanker powered by Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) technology. The AiP from BV confirms the technical feasibility of the concept as well as initial conformity to the applicable rules, industry codes, and standards.
The AiP was awarded as part of a strategic Joint Development Project involving MISC, SHI, and BV. This initiative focuses on the design and development of a large-scale commercial vessel that integrates PEMFC technology developed by Vinssen and is integrated with an Ammonia Cracking System (ACS) engineered by Panasia Co. Ltd. This breakthrough design will enable full-scale power for vessel propulsion, cargo handling, and onboard energy needs, surpassing previous applications, which have been limited to small vessels or auxiliary loads.
The vessel is developed to meet stringent International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations while delivering significant operational benefits. Its key advantages include:
- Zero Direct Emissions: Eliminates direct CO₂ emissions, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
- Regulatory Compliance: Future-proofs vessels against evolving environmental regulations and carbon taxation.
- Operational Efficiency: Offers alternative fuel utilization and lower maintenance costs compared to traditional engines.
- Scalability: Paves the way for broader adoption of ammonia-based fuel cell technology across the maritime sector.
Mr. Zahid Osman, President and Group CEO of MISC said, “We firmly believe that collaboration is the catalyst for maritime transformation and through this partnership, we are #deliveringProgress by uniting industry leaders in realizing a future where various new technologies being deployed to solve maritime’s greatest challenge, energy transition and decarbonization. This AiP is the result of combining our strengths and challenging conventional boundaries to transform sustainability aspirations into tangible progress. Together with SHI and BV, we are advancing a solution that will set a new standard for sustainable shipping and inspire greater industry-wide adoption of innovative solutions that will help the maritime industry meet its net-zero ambitions.”
Haeki Jang, the Chief Technical Officer from Samsung Heavy Industries said: “It is a great honor to be here today for this milestone. Our ammonia-fueled LR2 tanker powered by fuel cell represents a true step forward — delivering zero emissions, meeting future regulations, improving operational efficiency, and offering scalability for wider adoption. This innovation shows Samsung Heavy Industries’ strong commitment to sustainable growth and advanced technology. I would also like to thank the classification society and MISC for their valuable support and close cooperation.”