Shipping innovator, Viridis Bulk Carriers, has achieved Approval in Principle (AiP) for its cutting-edge ammonia-powered short sea bulk carrier design. This certification, awarded by the DNV classification society, was showcased at the Nor-Shipping trade fair.
This design, a brainchild of Kongsberg Maritime, envisions 5,000 dwt short seas vessels that rival conventionally fueled vessels in range and safety. The AiP is a nod to the design’s feasibility and its readiness for the newbuilding phase.
André Risholm, a Board Member of Viridis, voiced his satisfaction, emphasizing that these Viridis vessels would be in line with the stringent emission targets set by the EU and IMO. This will enable charterers to greatly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
Tuva Flagstad-Andersen, from DNV, pointed out that fostering such innovation is crucial for a sustainable maritime future.
Furthermore, the design complies with the DNV Gas Fuelled Ammonia class notation’s 2023 revision. It’s worth noting that this is the second AiP for Viridis’s vessel design, with a prior approval from Bureau Veritas.
With these certifications in place, Viridis is gearing up to order its first series of ships in 2023, eyeing deliveries by 2025. Joining Viridis in this revolutionary venture are eight partners, including the recently added Stema Shipping.
Collectively, under the banner “FlexBulk – NH3 Power”, these companies aim to offset the cost implications of adopting carbon-free ammonia fuel. This consortium has already bagged NOK 13.75 million (roughly $1.5 million) from the Norwegian Pilot-E program for development purposes.
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