Australia‘s Pilbara Ports Authority says plans are progressing for the first ammonia bunkering trial at the Port of Port Hedland later this year as it prepares for the arrival of ammonia-fuelled vessels.
The port authority said ammonia-powered ships are expected to begin calling at Pilbara as early as this year, following Fortescue‘s agreement with CMB.TECH to introduce ammonia-capable bulk carriers serving the region.
Fortescue announced on June 22 that it had signed a charter agreement for up to 12 Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels from Bocimar, CMB.TECH’s dry bulk shipping arm. Up to three of the 210,000 dwt vessels will be fitted with dual-fuel ammonia engines and are expected to enter service by the end of 2026, while the remaining nine will be ammonia-ready for future conversion.
“At Pilbara Ports, we’re proud to be supporting this transition, with plans progressing for our first ammonia refuelling trial at the Port of Port Hedland later this year,” the port authority said.
“This work will help ensure the Pilbara is ready – with the infrastructure, safety frameworks and operational capability needed to support the next generation of cleaner vessels.”
Pilbara Ports said the developments reflect growing global momentum behind ammonia as a marine fuel and broader efforts across the shipping industry to decarbonise supply chains.
