Shipowner Eidesvik Offshore is working with partners to convert “Viking Energy” into the world’s first ammonia-powered platform supply vessel.
The plans were announced by Eidesvik, energy company Equinor and propulsion specialist Wärtsilä. Ammonia has shown promise as an alternative fuel as the shipping industry looks for more sustainable fuel options. With new global regulations setting a clear target for shipping – net zero emissions by mid-century – the fuel will play an important role in enabling the shipping industry to reduce its emissions
At the time of delivery in 2003, the “Viking Energy” was the first LNG-powered supply vessel in the world. It was also the first ship in the world to receive the “Battery Power” listing from the classification society DNV. From 2026, the ship will be the first supply vessel in the world to run on ammonia, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70%.
In 2026, “Viking Energy” will run on ammonia with a new dual-fuel engine, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% or more.
“Eidesvik has a unique history as a pioneer”
The ship is owned and operated by the shipping company Eidesvik Offshore. A contract has been signed with Equinor for the conversion to ammonia operation, which includes “a significant contribution to the financing”. The dual-fuel engine will be built by Wärtsilä.
The project is also being funded with €5m as part of the EU’s Horizon Europe program. The necessary conversion and installation of the new engine, together with the complete fuel gas supply system and exhaust gas aftertreatment from Wärtsilä, is scheduled to take place in 2026.
During the testing of the technology on “Viking Energy”, the project partners will develop various modular designs and concepts that will enable the rapid introduction of ammonia engines as an alternative for existing and new vessels. “‘Apollo’ is an important step on our way to carbon-free ship operation. Eidesvik has a unique history as a pioneer in introducing new technologies to reduce emissions, and we are proud to take on this role again alongside Equinor,” says Gitte Gard Talmo, CEO and President of Eidesvik.
