The world’s first offshore vessel capable of operating on ammonia fuel is set to begin service this autumn.
The project marks a major step toward cleaner shipping and lower emissions in the maritime industry.
The vessel, named Viking Energy, is 95 meters long and has been operating for energy company Equinor since it was delivered in 2003. After the conversion, it will continue its contract with Equinor.
According to shipowner Eidesvik Offshore, the retrofit could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70 percent or more.
Eidesvik says Viking Energy will become the world’s first offshore vessel able to operate on ammonia. This is also the first real project in the maritime industry to test ammonia as fuel in normal commercial operations.
Ammonia is considered a promising zero-carbon fuel because it does not release carbon dioxide when burned. However, safely using ammonia on ships requires new technology and strict safety systems.
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The conversion work will begin in spring 2026 with prefabrication of steel and piping systems. The project includes major structural modifications to the vessel.
Engineers will install a new ammonia dual-fuel engine, along with ammonia storage tanks and fuel supply systems. The vessel will also receive technical upgrades to ensure safe operation.
Wärtsilä Supplies Dual-Fuel Engine
Technology company Wärtsilä will supply its 25-series dual-fuel engine. The engine can run on ammonia as well as marine gas oil. This flexibility ensures operational reliability.
Stefan Nysjö, Vice President of Power Supply at Wärtsilä Marine, says, “Ammonia-fuel technology is ready, and we’re excited to bring that capability onboard Viking Energy.” He adds, “This project marks an important milestone in supporting the maritime industry’s journey towards zero-emission operations.”
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Ship design and engineering are handled by Breeze Ship Design. The design package has already received preliminary assessment approval from the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
After the retrofit is complete, the vessel will undergo testing and commissioning before returning to full operation.
Part of EU-Supported Apollo Project
The ammonia conversion is part of the EU-backed Apollo Project. The initiative is led by Maritime CleanTech.
The Apollo project focuses on solving key challenges related to ammonia as a marine fuel. These include technical integration, operational procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Equinor is financially supporting the conversion. The wider consortium also includes DEME Group, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, and the National Centre for Scientific Research Demokritos.
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Mette Ottøy, Senior Vice President at Equinor, says, “Through this technology project, we will gain important knowledge about ammonia as a potential fuel for offshore vessels. It is encouraging to see the project progressing.”
The maritime sector is under pressure to reduce emissions and move toward cleaner fuels. Ammonia is seen as one of the strongest alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Viking Energy’s conversion could pave the way for more ammonia-powered ships in the future.
With lower emissions, strong industry collaboration, and real-world testing, this project signals a new chapter in sustainable offshore shipping.
