US-based fuel cell development Amogy is aiming to test a clean ammonia-powered tugboat on an inland waterway in upstate New York by mid-2024, delayed slightly from its initial schedule.
Amogy previously announced plans to test the "zero-emission" vessel in late 2023. But the project was delayed because of supply chain disruptions, Amogy told Argus on 15 March.
The developer will be retrofitting a diesel generator and electric motor tugboat from 1957 with its clean power generation technology. The vessel has been designed to accommodate a 1MW ammonia-to-power system, but further testing will determine the exact power output.
Norwegian fertilizer producer Yara will supply green ammonia feedstock for the demonstration.
Amogy's ammonia-to-power technology involves feeding liquefied ammonia through a modular cracking unit that converts the ammonia into hydrogen, which is then used in a fuel cell to generate electricity. The modular technology is scalable and can be ramped up according to vessel size or customised to fit specific power requirements. Safety measures, including sensors that are approved by various classification systems, will be included, along with training on proper usage.
Amogy eventually aims fully implement its maritime technology on small to medium-sized vessels. It is also exploring the possibility of using its ammonia-to-electricity system as a cleaner alternative to existing auxiliary engines in large vessels. This would help power a ship's systems and equipment with cleaner energy, alongside its main engine.
