Sustainability

Amogy, LOTTE Explore Ammonia Bunkering in South Korea | Mariner News

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Amogy and LOTTE Fine Chemical have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore ammonia bunkering operations for vessels in South Korea, signaling a focused effort to develop supply infrastructure for ammonia-to-power propulsion solutions.

The partnership will combine LOTTE Fine Chemical’s established ammonia supply, storage, and distribution network—including its Ulsan Port terminal and existing ship-bunkering capabilities—with Amogy’s proprietary technology, which converts ammonia into hydrogen for fuel cells or hydrogen engines, the companies announced on Thursday.

Crucially, the initiative will specifically target vessels equipped with Amogy’s ammonia-to-power technology. This technological alignment suggests a strategy for developing an integrated bunkering ecosystem, where fuel supply is directly linked to a specific propulsion solution rather than a generic fuel offering. For shipowners, this could offer a bundled approach to adopting ammonia as a marine fuel, potentially influencing newbuild technology choices.

LOTTE Fine Chemical has prior experience in the alternative fuels sector, having previously supplied what it described as the world’s first domestic ship-bunkering of green ammonia in Ulsan in April. This established track record positions Ulsan as a potential early hub for ammonia bunkering in the region.

Beyond direct vessel bunkering, the companies will also evaluate opportunities in hydrogen refuelling and distributed ammonia-to-power generation, hinting at a wider strategic agenda for energy transition.

While the MOU establishes a framework for collaboration, it does not currently include a specific bunkering project or timeline. Further details are expected to be finalised as potential opportunities are evaluated.