Photo: RINA , https://fuelcellsworks.com/2025/06/06/clean-technology/rina-grants-aip-for-dual-fuel-lng-hydrogen-powered-ultramax-bulker-design-developed-by-almi-marine-management-s-a-and-sdari
Almi Marine and SDARI Secure RINA's Approval in Principle for Innovative Dual-Fuel Ultramax Bulker
In a significant advancement for sustainable maritime transport, Greek shipping company Almi Marine Management S.A., in collaboration with Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI), has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from classification society RINA for their innovative Ultramax bulk carrier design. This vessel uniquely integrates a hybrid propulsion system combining liquefied natural gas (LNG) and hydrogen, aiming to set new standards in eco-friendly shipping.
The design is based on SDARI's latest Green Dolphin 64 platform and incorporates a fully electrified ship concept. A standout feature is the onboard hydrogen reforming plant, which produces hydrogen from LNG, thereby eliminating the challenges associated with storing liquid hydrogen. This hydrogen, along with LNG, will be co-fired in the vessel's generators at controlled ratios, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions .
To further enhance environmental performance, the vessel employs pre-combustion CO₂ capture technology. This approach captures carbon dioxide before fuel combustion, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions and improving the vessel's Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) compliance.
Christos Hadjigeorgiou, Managing Director of Almi Marine, emphasized the company's commitment to sustainable innovation, stating that securing a long-term charter agreement is a prerequisite before commencing construction on this complex project.
The Approval in Principle was formally presented at the Nor-Shipping exhibition on June 5, 2025, highlighting the industry's shift toward greener technologies and the potential of hybrid fuel systems in achieving decarbonization goals.
Key Takeaways:
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Innovative Propulsion: The Ultramax bulker features a hybrid LNG-hydrogen propulsion system with onboard hydrogen production, eliminating the need for liquid hydrogen storage.
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Environmental Compliance: Incorporation of pre-combustion CO₂ capture technology enhances the vessel's compliance with stringent environmental regulations.
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Industry Recognition: RINA's Approval in Principle signifies a major milestone, acknowledging the design's potential to contribute to sustainable maritime operations.
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Future Outlook: Almi Marine's proactive approach underscores the importance of innovation and long-term planning in the transition to eco-friendly shipping solutions.
This development marks a pivotal step in the maritime industry's journey toward sustainability, showcasing how collaborative innovation can lead to practical solutions for reducing environmental impact.
