Pilbara to pioneer ammonia bunkering

The Joint Development Agreement (JDA) aims to enable large-scale ammonia bunkering operations by 2030, supporting the shift to alternative fuels and accelerating port decarbonisation in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

“Pilbara Ports is proud to partner with NH3 and Oceania to advance decarbonisation efforts in the maritime industry. The Pilbara is a natural beachhead to kick start the clean fuel transition,” said Sam McSkimming, CEO, Pilbara Ports’ CEO.

”The green iron corridor between the Pilbara and East Asia has the scale, stable demand, port infrastructure, and risk management experience, to support the significant investment that maritime decarbonisation requires.”

Ammonia supply chain

The collaboration supports the supply of clean ammonia fuel for iron ore carriers operating between the Pilbara and Asia, aligning with the International Maritime Organisation’s 2027 Net Zero Framework.

The plan includes a comprehensive scope of work to establish operational feasibility, secure regulatory approvals and finalise investment decisions by 2026.

Port infrastructure will be critical, with Pilbara Ports managing safety and licensing, NH3 supplying ammonia from its WAH2 Project and Oceania operating bunker vessels to transfer fuel ship-to-ship.

The development leverages the region’s strategic position, handling over 750 million tonnes of bulk exports annually and aligns with growing global demand for cleaner marine fuels.

With 29 ammonia-capable vessels expected before 2030, the partners aim to position Dampier as a key player in the global ammonia bunkering market.

The initiative also highlights Western Australia’s potential to lead in green shipping and low-carbon fuel innovation.