Ammonia as a Fuel : Study by GE Gas Power and IHI Corp
Here’s an article posted in Powermag that talks about the study conducted by GE Gas power and IHI Corp on Ammonia.
According to the article,
- GE Gas Power and IHI Corp conducted a study on using ammonia as a fuel for gas turbines in Japan.
- The study suggests that ammonia has the potential to be a cost-effective and carbon-free fuel for gas turbines.
- The companies aim to develop ammonia combustion technologies by 2030 to enable gas turbines to burn up to 100% ammonia, reducing carbon emissions.
- This research provides valuable insights into the economic and technological aspects of using low-carbon fuels in gas turbines.
Additional information related to this stuff:
Ammonia is gaining traction as a viable alternative fuel, particularly in the context of global decarbonization efforts. Its use in various sectors, notably in marine and power generation, highlights its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions.
Ammonia in Marine Fuel
Ammonia’s role as a marine fuel is exemplified by the Fortescue Green Pioneer, the world’s first ocean-going ammonia-powered vessel. This vessel, which operates dual-fueled engines combining ammonia with diesel, signifies a crucial step towards the commercialization of ammonia-fueled marine engines (Fortescue). Furthermore, the Wärtsilä Corporation has developed an Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS), designed to facilitate the use of ammonia in maritime operations. This system is suitable for new ships and can also be retrofitted into existing vessels, underscoring its adaptability and potential for widespread adoption (Wartsila.com).
Ammonia in Power Generation
In power generation, Japan is pioneering significant transitions by retrofitting coal-fired power plants to use ammonia for co-combustion. This approach allows these plants to significantly reduce carbon emissions while maintaining energy output. The IHI Corporation, in particular, has developed a turbine that operates completely on ammonia, marking a substantial advancement in clean energy technologies (Nature).
Economic and Environmental Impact
Economically, the adoption of green ammonia could be transformative for the shipping industry, which is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Studies suggest that green ammonia could satisfy over 60% of the global shipping fuel demands by targeting just the top 10 regional fuel ports. This shift would require substantial investments, particularly in regions with high solar energy potential, which are ideal for producing green ammonia (eci.ox.ac).
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its potential, the transition to ammonia as a fuel source is not without challenges. The cost of green ammonia production, although expected to decrease, currently remains higher than traditional fossil fuels. Moreover, safety concerns related to ammonia’s handling and toxicity need ongoing attention to ensure widespread adoption is both safe and effective (IEA) (weforum).
Overall, ammonia stands out as a promising candidate in the push towards a more sustainable and carbon-neutral global energy landscape.
Interestingly, we have some other posts related to this content:
Ammonia Co-firing Slash CO2 Emissions: Mitsubishi and JERA’s Studies
Mitsubishi and JERA study ammonia co-firing potential, aiming for a 20% co-firing rate in Chile and Japan, exploring ammonia as a cost-effective, carbon-free fuel.
Ammonia-Hydrogen Engine by Deutsche Bahn and Fortescue: Green Railways
Ammonia-hydrogen engines aim to run on green ammonia and hydrogen, with higher energy density than liquid hydrogen, trialed by DB and FFI
