A tugboat powered by ammonia sailed for the first time on a tributary of the Hudson River. This historic voyage marks a major step in reducing carbon emissions in the maritime industry. The tugboat, NH3 Kraken, was converted from diesel fuel by Amogy, a New York-based startup focused on clean energy solutions. Amogy’s CEO, Seonghoon Woo, launched the company with three friends from MIT to tackle climate change in heavy industries.
The NH3 Kraken demonstrates how ammonia, a carbon-free fuel, can replace traditional diesel in shipping. Amogy’s system converts ammonia into hydrogen, which powers the vessel’s fuel cell, generating electricity without carbon emissions. This new technology aims to address shipping emissions, which account for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations.
Amogy first used ammonia to power a drone, then a tractor, and later a semi-truck before moving to ships. The company’s ultimate goal is to bring ammonia-powered propulsion to large vessels like container ships, which contribute significantly to maritime emissions. Shipping giant Amazon has invested in the technology, supporting Amogy’s mission to make zero-emissions shipping a reality.
Other companies, like Yara and Fortescue, are also working on ammonia-powered ships, combining ammonia with diesel. Amogy’s project is a milestone, with South Korean shipbuilders working to integrate this technology into future ship designs.
