Yara launches construction of the first containership powered by renewable ammonia
Yara Clean Ammonia has marked a major milestone in maritime decarbonization with the steel-cutting ceremony for Yara Eyde, the world’s first containership designed to operate on renewable ammonia.
The start of construction officially signals a new chapter in adopting ammonia as a low-emission fuel for global shipping.
Route and operations
The vessel will sail on the Oslo – Porsgrunn – Bremerhaven – Rotterdam route, connecting Norway’s and Germany’s industrial clusters while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It will be operated by North Sea Container Line under a joint venture with Yara Clean Ammonia.
Industry remarks
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“This is more than the launch of a ship – it is the beginning of a new chapter in maritime decarbonization,” said Hans Olav Raen, CEO of Yara Clean Ammonia.
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“Yara Eyde is a prime example of how close collaboration across the value chain can bring advanced technology into commercial use, creating tangible benefits for shippers and customers,” added Bente Hetland, CEO of North Sea Container Line.
Ammonia as marine fuel
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According to DNV, ammonia has progressed from concept to early deployment within just five years.
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The shipping industry has 39 ammonia-fueled vessels on order, mainly tankers and multipurpose cargo ships.
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Production capacity is expected to reach 14 million tons annually by 2030.
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Bunkering trials have already been conducted in Singapore and Rotterdam.
Challenges remain, including toxicity, high costs, and the need for standardized solutions, regulatory frameworks under the IGF Code, expanded production, port infrastructure, and crew training.
Significance for the industry
The Yara Eyde project highlights the broader transition to alternative marine fuels. According to the DNV Alternative Fuels Insight platform, orders for alternative-fuel vessels reached 19.8 million gross tons in the first half of 2025 — a 78% increase compared to the same period last year.
