An Approval in Principle (AiP) has been granted by ClassNK for the ammonia-fueled tugboat A-Tug, which has been developed collaboratively by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) and IHI Power Systems.

The classification society conducted a design review of the A-Tug which is currently undergoing R&D by NYK Line and IHI Power Systems in accordance with Part C-1 of ClassNK’s guidelines. The AiP is the first issued by ClassNK for a tugboat which uses ammonia as a fuel, and verifies the vessel complies with prescribed requirements.

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Both NYK Line and IHI Power Systems aim to conduct a demonstration operation at the port of Yokohama in Japan in fiscal year 2024. For the remainder of the project, ClassNK will provide support as the certification body.

The industry seeks to contribute to decarbonization by utilizing ammonia as a fuel, as it does not emit CO2. ClassNK recently issued an updated version of its Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels (ClassNK publishes updated Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels | Electric Hybrid Marine Technology), which outlines the requirements necessary to minimize the risks for ammonia-fueled ships, crews and the environment.