Skarv Shipping Solutions, a Norwegian joint venture between Peak CSL Group and Grieg Edge, has placed an order for an ammonia-powered general cargo shortsea vessel at a Chinese shipyard.
The 7,800 dwt self-unloader is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2027.
Arriva Shipping, another Norwegian owner and operator, will take the vessel on charter and manage its commercial operations on behalf of wood products trader Viken AT Market. Arriva recently signed a separate deal for an 8,000 dwt battery-hybrid bulker newbuilding at Jiangsu Soho Marine Heavy Industry.
Viken AT Market currently transports around 1 million tons of Norwegian timber to continental Europe annually, mostly using conventional diesel-powered vessels.
“Norway’s coastal fleet must rapidly transition to more climate-friendly operations, and we are thrilled to provide nearly zero-emission transport to Viken AT Market. Their forward-thinking approach and willingness to invest in sustainable solutions deserve recognition,” said Bjørn Ødegård, Commercial Director at Arriva Shipping.
Bergen-based Skarv Shipping Solutions developed the vessel’s concept, with Grieg Shipbrokers assisting in securing the technology and yard agreement.
The vessel is designed to operate efficiently at low speeds, mitigating the higher cost of ammonia compared to traditional fuels. Its 160 cu m ammonia tank, combined with marine gasoil as a pilot fuel, will provide enough energy for a 14-day round trip from Norway to the continent.
“This is our first ship capable of sailing on ammonia from day one, enabling minimal greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the engine is integrated with an electric propulsion system that utilizes batteries and can access shore power,” said Jan Øivind Svardal, CEO of Skarv Shipping.
The newbuild will be an updated version of the four sister ships Skarv Shipping previously ordered for Peak CSL Group at Huanghai Shipbuilding in China, which will also construct this latest vessel.