Hanwha is working to advance carbon-free shipping by developing ammonia-powered turbines in collaboration with Baker Hughes, driving innovation in maritime energy solutions

Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Power Systems have signed a joint development and collaboration agreement with Baker Hughes, a global energy technology company, to design and produce eco-friendly ammonia gas turbines with the goal of achieving the world’s first completely carbon-free ship operation.

“This collaborative development of an eco-friendly ammonia gas turbine will be a significant turning point in the global shipbuilding and shipping industry, accelerating the transition to low-carbon fuel propulsion for ships,” said Young-chang Shon, CTO of Hanwha Ocean’s Product Strategy Technology Institute.

The ammonia gas turbine to be developed through this collaboration will be based on Baker Hughes’ existing world-class turbine technology and a newly developed ammonia combustion system created by PSM, a U.S.-based Hanwha subsidiary. The gas turbine will be capable of 100% ammonia combustion and dual fuel operation with natural gas and ammonia blend. It is expected to be a game-changing technology for large shipowners, ultimately enabling a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion.

“The transition to low-carbon fuels in shipping is a defining imperative of our time, and Hanwha Power Systems will continue driving the development of innovative technologies that support the entire life cycle of eco-friendly ships,” said Hyoung-seog Kim, executive vice president and head of Hanwha Power Systems' Marine Solutions Business Department.