Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners develops ammonia bunkering operations manual

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its Energy Transition Fund (ETF), recently developed an Ammonia Bunkering Operations Manual in collaboration with leading gas experts and reviewed by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).

The manual provides a structured framework for safe and efficient ammonia bunkering, aligning with future IMO procedures and evolving gas codes. By detailing critical safety protocols, it ensures the protection of personnel,vessels, and the environment during bunkering operations. 

ETF will continue refining the manual in collaboration with key stakeholders as industry standards progress.

The 73-page bunkering manual builds upon existing gas carrier procedures for loading, discharging, and ship-to-ship transfers, adapting these established protocols to suit bunkering operations. 

As a next step, ETF will develop a Fuel Handling Manual for customers, providing guidance on managing bunkered ammonia, including emergency response procedures and safety drills to ensure crew preparedness. 

ETF has engaged port authorities and industry stakeholders to refine its approach to ammonia bunkering. Through ongoing discussions with the Port of Rotterdam (POR), Port of Sines (APS), and Duisport, ETF has gathered insights to align its bunkering procedures with port infrastructure, safety requirements, and operational best practices.

The ammonia project MadoquaPower2X – a partnership between ETF and Madoqua – has already put in place a strategic MOU with POR, APS and Dusiport to develop a Maritime Green Corridor between Portugal and Northwest Europe hub for renewable supply chain of green hydrogen derivatives, including ammonia and methanol. Building on this foundation, ETF will continue to operationalise its Bunkering Operations and Fuel Handling standards initiative by collaborating with ports, shipping operators, and regulatory bodies to support the safe and efficient adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel.

Johan Thybo, Business Development Manager, CIP Energy Transition Fund, said: “We believe ammonia will be the dominant green marine fuel of the future, as it is a zero-carbon fuel with no scalability restrictions and low production costs relative to other e-fuels.”

“The development of our Ammonia Bunkering Operations Manual marks a significant milestone in our commitment to safe and sustainable ammonia delivery and our partnerships with port authorities, governments, and shipping companies are crucial for enabling the ammonia transition.”

Photo credit: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Published: 5 March, 2025