Norwegian energy firm Equinor has signed a contract with compatriot Eidesvik Offshore to convert the LNG dual-fuel PSV, Viking Energy, to operate with ammonia fuel.
According to separate statements by Eidesvik and Equinor, Viking Energy will be the world’s first supply vessel fueled by ammonia.
In addition to chartering the vessel, Equinor will contribute to funding the conversion.
The project received five million euros ($5.6 million) in support through the EU Horizon Europe program.
The vessel is expected to be fully converted and put into operation in 2026.
In July this year, Equinor declared options to extend the contract with Eidesvik for the LNG dual-fuel 2003-built supply vessel.
The contract extension runs from April 2025, extending the firm period to April 2030.
Viking Energy has been in continuous operation for Equinor since its launch in 2003.
The vessel supplies Equinor’s installations on the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS).
At the time of delivery in 2003, the vessel was the world’s first LNG-fueled supply vessel.
Besides LNG propulsion, the 94.9 meters long PSV features a battery hybrid system.
Wartsila to supply engine and other equipment
Finland’s Warstila won the contract from Eidesvik to supply supply the equipment for the conversion project.
In addition to the Wartsila 25 ammonia engine, Wartsila will supply the complete ammonia solution.
This include its AmmoniaPac fuel gas supply system, the Wartsila ammonia release mitigation system (WARMS), and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system designed for ammonia.
Warstila said a service agreement, covering maintenance, is a highly essential part of the deal.
The conversion project is planned for early 2026, with final commissioning expected in the second quarter of 2026, it said.