CMB.TECH vessel Mineral Europa begins first green ammonia voyage

The Mineral Europa, a large-capacity vessel capable of transporting 210,000 tonnes, has commenced its maiden voyage to Australia following successful sea trials. Built at the Qingdao Beihai shipyard in China, the ship belongs to the Belgian company CMB.TECH and utilizes green ammonia as a primary fuel source.

In the Chinese port of Zhoushan, the vessel was refueled with 1,000 tonnes of green ammonia via a direct ship-to-ship transfer. Green ammonia is produced using renewable energy, water, and nitrogen, offering a method to reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport since its combustion does not directly produce carbon dioxide. However, total environmental impact remains dependent on production methods, auxiliary fuel use, and engine emissions.

Despite the technological milestone, economic challenges persist. Ammonia-powered vessels are approximately 15–20% more expensive than conventional ships, and green ammonia costs roughly $2,900 per tonne of marine diesel equivalent—five times the price of traditional fuel. Additionally, ammonia requires three times more storage space than diesel for the same energy output.

CMB.TECH plans to expand its fleet by adding 21 ammonia-based vessels by 2029, including bulk carriers, a container ship, and chemical tankers. Fortescue has already secured an agreement to charter up to 12 Newcastlemax vessels from the CMB.TECH fleet, three of which will feature dual-fuel engines.