MOL's ammonia FSRU design gets approval

Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announced on December 22 that it has been awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) by the classification society Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) for a design of a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) specifically tailored for ammonia. The project is a collaborative effort between MOL and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co.

This AiP provides further validation for its efforts in the design and development of an ammonia FSRU. The technology enables a large scale of storage and distribution of seaborn ammonia. Introducing the ammonia FSRU concept, MOL expects to contribute to the ammonia value chain as an alternative carbon-neutral fuel. 

To secure the AiP, MOL, in collaboration with ClassNK and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, conducted a comprehensive hazard identification study (Hazid). This study identified potential hazards and assessed associated risks crucial for the design and operation of the ammonia FSRU.

Before the Hazid, MOL conducted a gas dispersion study, the results of which were instrumental in the Hazid, enabling the evaluation of risks more quantitatively. This approach allowed the team to narrow down specific preventive measures and countermeasures against ammonia leaks, enhancing the safety protocols surrounding the technology.

The MOL Group has set a mid-to-long-term target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.