According to Reuters, BHP has signed a new charter agreement with COSCO Shipping for two ammonia dual-fuelled Newcastlemax bulk carriers, reinforcing the Australian mining giant’s commitment to reducing its maritime emissions.
Scheduled for delivery in 2028, the vessels will be chartered for five years and primarily deployed on BHP’s key iron ore route between Western Australia and Northeast Asia.
BHP notes that the dual-fuel vessels are capable of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% per voyage, and potentially up to 95%, depending on the grade of ammonia used. If fueled with low or zero-emission ammonia, the impact could be transformative in terms of reducing carbon output from long-haul shipping.
This latest move adds to BHP’s growing low-emissions fleet strategy. The company previously shared with Reuters that it expects to receive its first ammonia-powered bulk carrier as early as 2026.
Ammonia is quickly emerging as one of the leading contenders in the search for scalable, alternative marine fuels.
