The world’s first commercial ammonia-fueled vessel, Sakigake, has successfully completed a three-month demonstration voyage. This innovative tugboat, operating in Tokyo Bay, achieved a remarkable greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction of nearly 95%. Constructed by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) in collaboration with IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd. on August 23, 2024, this project was part of Japan’s Green Innovation Fund, managed by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
The initiative began in October 2021 under NEDO’s Green Innovation Fund Project, focusing on developing vessels powered by domestically produced ammonia engines. Following completion in August 2024, NYK Group subsidiary Shin-Nippon Kaiyosha undertook the ambitious task of conducting the tugboat operations during the demonstration period. Analysis carried out by NYK and IPS during the voyage revealed that ammonia co-firing and GHG reduction rates consistently exceeded 90%, peaking at approximately 95% across various engine load ranges.
This successful demonstration solidifies ammonia’s potential as a viable and promising alternative fuel for the maritime industry. To commemorate this achievement, a ceremony was held in Yokohama, attended by notable figures such as former Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide and other government officials. Looking ahead, Sakigake will continue its tugboat operations in Tokyo Bay as NYK gathers further insights on ammonia-fueled vessel development and operation.
Additionally, in partnership with Japan Engine Corporation and Nippon Shipyard Co., Ltd., NYK is working on creating an ammonia-fueled ammonia gas carrier, set to launch in November 2026, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable shipping solutions and striving towards net-zero emissions in the industry.