Pherousa, a maritime technology innovator, has launched a two-year pilot program to trial onboard ammonia cracking, converting liquid ammonia into hydrogen to power fuel cells onboard ships. This approach aims to eliminate carbon emissions from propulsion systems in maritime transport. 

Pilot Overview & Technical Vision

This pilot builds on an existing 10 kW prototype, with plans to scale the technology into 250 kW containerized units for sea trials. The project already has in-principle approvals from classification societies ABS and DNV. 

Under the trial, ammonia—carried as a liquid onboard—will be cracked into hydrogen and nitrogen. The hydrogen will feed PEM fuel cells, generating electricity and enabling carbon-free propulsion. The trial is backed by partners, including BHP and Berge Bulk, to decarbonize the transportation of copper from Chile to China. 

This onboard conversion model presents a compelling alternative to carrying hydrogen itself or relying on external fueling infrastructure, offering increased flexibility and reduced emissions in deep-sea shipping.

Oslo-based start-up Pherousa has launched a two-year pilot to trial its onboard ammonia-to-hydrogen cracking technology.

The project builds on a 10kW prototype, supplied by major shareholder Metacon. Pherousa plans to scale the system into 250kW containerised units for sea trials, with class societies DNV and ABS already approving the tech in principle.

Onboard, the system will crack ammonia into hydrogen to feed Pherousa’s PEM fuel cells, generating electricity to propel the vessel.

As part of the initiative, mining giant BHP will link the pilot to the decarbonisation of copper shipments from Chile to China. At the same time, shipowner Berge Bulk will provide the host vessel.

Ammonia producers Engie and Mejilones Ammonia Energy (MAE) will supply the required low-carbon fuel for the vessels.

If the trial is successful, Pherousa plans to scale up the crackers to megawatt capacity, gain type approval, and order an additional six ultramax bulk carriers for delivery in 2030.

The upcoming pilot programme is expected to begin in early 2027.

Shipping accounts for about 3% of global CO₂ emissions, driving interest in alternative fuels such as ammonia.

Its high energy density, liquid storage, and ability to use existing infrastructure make it attractive. But while it can fuel engines, it cannot be used directly in PEM fuel cells without cracking.

The Global Maritime Forum recently said ammonia is nearing proof of concept, with pilot vessels, engine tests, and bunkering trials already underway.

Lead the Future of Emission-Free Shipping with Klean’s Visionary Insight

Maritime Innovation. Hydrogen Systems. One Partner That Powers the Next Wave.

As the maritime industry seeks pathways to zero-emission propulsion, Klean Industries stands ready to support innovators with domain expertise, a clear project roadmap, and cross-sector integration capabilities.

Klean’s Marine & Hydrogen Strengths:

✅ Feasibility & Technical Validation of Onboard Ammonia / Hydrogen Systems
✅ System Integration & Engineering for Ship Applications
✅ Decarbonization Strategy & Emission Modeling
✅ Offtake / Partner Matching for Marine Fuel Systems
✅ Advisory Support from Pilot to Commercial Scale

With Klean’s strategic depth across hydrogen, circular systems, and project execution, your marine technology ambitions won’t just catch up; they’ll lead.

Ready to explore onboard ammonia cracking or marine hydrogen systems?

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