ASX-listed NH3 Clean Energy has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) and Oceania Marine Energy for the development of clean ammonia bunkering operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

The MoU outlines collaboration between NH3, MOL and Oceania over the next 12 months to support the establishment of clean ammonia bunkering operations at the Port of Dampier by 2030.

MOL is a global shipping company that is looking to establish a fleet of ammonia dual-fuelled capesize bulk carriers on the West Australia to East Asia trade route and ensure appropriate low-emissions bunkering arrangements are in place.

The objectives of the MoU are to develop a compelling, integrated proposition to supply clean ammonia-fuelled ships and clean ammonia bunkering services to streamline the process for Australian mining companies to move to clean ammonia-fuelled shipping; develop aggregate initial bunkering demand of 300 000 t/y of clean ammonia which would be supplied from NH3’s planned WAH₂ project; and support the final investment decision for the project planned for late 2026.

This MoU builds on the collaboration already occurring under the joint development agreement that NH3 previously signed with Pilbara Ports Authority and Oceania.

“We are delighted to have this agreement with MOL that helps to take the clean ammonia bunkering business another step closer to reality. Linking ammonia production from the WAH₂ project to Oceania’s refuelling services, Pilbara Ports logistics and infrastructure and now MOL shipping fleet demonstrates the viability of this new industry,” says NH3 chairperson Charles Whitfield.

“We are honoured to sign this MoU with NH3 and Oceania today, which will be a vital hub for our ammonia dual-fuelled capesize bulkers scheduled to start operations from 2026. This collaboration marks an important milestone in our efforts to establish a safe and reliable ammonia bunkering operation in the Pilbara region.

“By working closely with our partners, we look forward to building a robust framework for safe ammonia bunkering and advancing sustainable shipping together,” says MOL managing executive officer Kazuhiro Takahashi.

“Oceania’s collaboration with MOL and NH3 Clean Energy shows how partnerships across the energy and shipping sectors can deliver real emission reduction outcomes for Australia’s iron ore exporters and shipping industry.

“By combining NH3’s planned clean ammonia production capacity, Pilbara Ports’ infrastructure, Oceania’s bunker services and MOL’s pioneering dual-fuel fleet, we would create an integrated end-to-end marine fuel solution that enables our customers to meet the International Maritime Organization’s decarbonisation targets,” says Oceania MD Nick Bentley.