The companies signed a memorandum of understanding to convert GasLog’s LNG carrier propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine at Gastech 2024 in Houston.
Through this agreement, the companies plan to discuss details of the demonstration plan to replace the existing fossil fuel-powered vessels with environmentally friendly ammonia gas turbines.
Last month, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean, with the assistance of GasLog, completed preliminary engineering and economic feasibility studies for the LNG carrier conversion.
Following the signing of the MoU, Hanwha Power Systems and GasLog, as strategic partners, will continue their cooperation focusing on performance, economic and compliance assessments from a comprehensive perspective to promote the application of ammonia gas turbines in ship retrofits.
Justin Lee, CEO of Hanwha Power Systems, commented on the agreement: “If the demonstration of ammonia gas turbines for ship propulsion is successful, it will be a major turning point in the global shipbuilding and shipping industry, paving the way for environmentally friendly fuel propulsion in ships.”
Hanwha Power Systems, through its affiliate Power Systems Mfg., LLC (PSM) in the United States, has been actively developing an ammonia (NH3) combustion system to meet the anticipated requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and EU “Fit for 55”. The system will be implemented with a gas turbine designed for this propulsion application.
According to the company, there are also ongoing discussions with some major ship owners.
“In particular, ship owners point out that ammonia gas turbines do not require pilot oil during normal operation, whereas engines typically require pilot oil at all operating points. An ammonia-fueled gas turbine can operate completely carbon-free, or operators can freely mix ammonia and natural gas, allowing them to respond flexibly and economically to future regulations.