MOL Joins UK-Led Consortium to Advance Ammonia Marine Engine Technology

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has joined a UK-based project aimed at developing low-emission ammonia engine technology for maritime applications. The initiative, known as the Future Low-emission Ammonia Marine Engine Project, has been selected under Round 6 of the UK’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC6).

The project is led by UK engine developer Carnot Ltd., in partnership with MOL’s regional subsidiary MOL (Europe Africa) Ltd., along with several other UK-based companies and academic institutions. CMDC6 is part of the Clean Maritime interventions delivered by UK SHORE, an initiative by the UK Department for Transport that supports the development and commercialisation of clean maritime technologies.

Carnot is working on a high-efficiency engine design that minimises energy loss from cooling and improves fuel performance through the use of heat-resistant materials. The consortium plans to develop a retrofit ammonia auxiliary engine solution that can be applied to existing vessels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs.

The University of Southampton will provide advanced combustion modelling, while Clean Air Power GT Ltd. will design a high-flow ammonia injector system. Houlder Ltd. is tasked with ensuring the technical integration of the engine into maritime platforms. Market analysis and commercialisation strategy will be handled by De Courcy Alexander Ltd. MOL (Europe Africa) Ltd. will offer operational input, fleet expertise and guidance on fuel deployment, contributing to a phased adoption strategy for ammonia use in shipping.

The project supports MOL’s environmental objectives under its BLUE ACTION 2035 plan, which focuses on decarbonisation and sustainable business development in maritime logistics.