#South Korea #Seoul #Baker Hughes #Hanwha Power Systems #Ammonia Turbines

Introduction

In a significant step toward sustainable maritime transportation, Hanwha Power Systems and Baker Hughes have formed a joint development agreement that aims to pioneer the production of ammonia gas turbines. This collaboration signifies a decisive move toward creating ships that operate completely free of carbon emissions, aligning with global decarbonization goals.

Partnership Goals

Signed during the Baker Hughes Annual Meeting 2025 in Florence, Italy, this agreement is focused on designing and manufacturing low-carbon ammonia gas turbines. The manifold benefits of using ammonia as a fuel source stem from its potential to generate power with minimal environmental impact—eliminating the reliance on fossil fuels in the marine transportation sector.

The urgency for environmentally friendly shipping solutions has never been greater, and this partnership is a testament to the innovative strategies being employed within the marine industry.

Development Timeline

Following the vision articulated by the Hanwha Group at the Davos Forum last year, the ultimate goal is to launch the world’s first fossil fuel-free ship by 2028. The development process will leverage Baker Hughes’ world-class turbine technology combined with a cutting-edge ammonia combustion system developed by PSM, a Hanwha subsidiary based in the USA.

This strategic collaboration aims to innovate ship propulsion technology: the gas turbine will operate on 100% ammonia and will also have the capability for dual fuel operation, utilizing both natural gas and ammonia blends. This unique energy flexibility positions owners of large vessels favorably, allowing for a transition to carbon-neutral operations.

Technological Innovations

The ammonia gas turbine technology is on the cutting edge of marine engineering. Coupled with approvals for its use in liquefied natural gas carriers from the American Bureau of Shipping, the project marks a pivotal moment in shipbuilding. The recent successful high-pressure ammonia combustion tests conducted by PSM underline the technical feasibility and readiness of this project.

In addition to their joint endeavors, Hanwha Power Systems has recently entered into a memorandum of understanding with a major European liquefied natural gas shipping company aimed at transitioning its propulsion systems to ammonia-based solutions, amplifying the collaborative synergy on this pioneering project.

Industry Impact

Executives within both companies express firm belief that this venture will trigger a transformative change in the maritime sector. According to Kim Hyeong-seok, head of Hanwha’s Marine Solutions Business Department, the imperative to utilize lower-carbon fuels is pressing, and Hanwha Power Systems is committed to being at the forefront of developing innovative technologies that drive eco-friendly ship solutions.

Son Young-chang, vice president of Hanwha Ocean, describes this ammonia gas turbine development as a revolutionary turning point for maritime transportation, emphasizing that it will facilitate the transition to eco-friendly fuel technologies.

The Future of Shipping

The ongoing projects by Hanwha Power Systems and Baker Hughes align seamlessly with global efforts to combat climate change and enhance environmental sustainability in the shipping industry. As technological boundaries are pushed, the ambition to eliminate fossil fuel reliance in maritime transportation becomes increasingly plausible.

With Baker Hughes’ extensive experience in small and medium-sized gas turbine technology combined with Hanwha’s aspirations in eco-friendly energy solutions, this partnership embodies a collaborative vision. The expectation is set high as both entities strive to not only create the world's first carbon-free ship but to also pave the way for a more sustainable maritime future.

Conclusion

Together, Hanwha Power Systems and Baker Hughes are launching a meaningful and ambitious initiative poised to redefine marine energy solutions. By harnessing ammonia as a fuel source, they are not merely innovating; they are leading a much-needed change that echoes through the vast waters of global shipping, contributing significantly to the overarching goal of environmental sustainability.