Nord Gas Solutions’ Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS) Powers a New Era of Sustainable Shipping
Published on
11 August 2026
Written by
Nord Gas Solutions
A new era in shipping began in April 2026 with the naming of EXMAR’s two 46,000 m³ gas carriers, Antwerpen and Arlon. These vessels are the world's first ocean-going mid-size gas carriers designed to operate on ammonia fuel, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry's transition to low-carbon energy solutions.
This pioneering achievement required the development of an advanced Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS). In early 2024, Nord Gas Solutions—then part of the technology group Wärtsilä—was selected to engineer and supply the system. With Antwerpen now successfully in operation, Nord Gas Solutions' technology has proven its ability to support safe and a reliable ammonia-fueled system.
The vessels are owned by EXMAR and were built at HD Hyundai in South Korea as part of a six-ship series. While all six vessels were originally intended to operate on LPG, the final two ships were later redesigned to use ammonia fuel, in total there are six vessels (two with LPG dual fuel and four with ammonica fuel systems). By switching to ammonia, the vessels can reduce CO₂ emissions.
These vessels demonstrate the future of low-carbon shipping. Developing a fuel supply system for liquid ammonia was a unique challenge that required advanced technology and specialist expertise. We are proud to see Antwerpen now in operation with the system performing as designed.
Nord Gas Solutions is the new corporate brand established following the acquisition of Wärtsilä Gas Solutions by Mutares SE & Co., effective June 1, 2026.
Image caption: Naming ceremony of EXMAR’s vessels Antwerpen and Arlon © EXMAR
