Hanwha and Baker Hughes Enter into Joint Development Agreement for Ammonia Gas Turbines

Leading the Decarbonization of the Marine Transportation Sector Through Fuel-Flexible Combustion Technology

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With the goal of completely carbon-free operation of ships, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean (KRX: 042660) have signed a Joint Development and Collaboration Agreement with Baker Hughes, a global energy technology company, to design and produce low-carbon ammonia gas turbines during the Baker Hughes Annual Meeting 2025 in Florence, Italy on February 2-4.

>> In Other News: PyroGenesis' Contract with Varennes Carbon Recycling Plant Project Increases to $3.6 million.

Hanwha Group declared its vision for the world's first fossil fuel-free ship at the Davos Forum in Switzerland last year. Hanwha Group plans to complete the development of liquefied natural gas carriers and container ships using the ammonia gas turbine propulsion system by 2028.

The ammonia gas turbine will be based on Baker Hughes' proven, small-size world-class turbine technology and a newly developed ammonia combustion system created by PSM, a U.S.-based Hanwha subsidiary. The gas turbine will be capable of 100% ammonia combustion and dual-fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend. This will enable a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion for large shipowners.

In September 2023, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean obtained Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to apply ammonia gas turbines to LNG carriers.

PSM completed an initial high-pressure ammonia combustion test campaign, and Baker Hughes conducted initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. Additionally, Hanwha Power Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Gastech 2024 in Houston, U.S., with a large LNG carrier shipping company in Europe to convert its propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine-based system.

Through this joint development agreement, Hanwha aims to expand technological cooperation and develop the world’s first completely carbon-free ship, providing innovative solutions for the transition away from fossil fuels.

Kim Hyeong-seok, Executive Director, head of Hanwha Power Systems' Marine Solutions Business Department, said, "The shift to lower carbon fuel for ships is necessary, and Hanwha Power Systems will continue developing technologies for the entire life cycle of eco-friendly ships."

"This development of a low-carbon ammonia gas turbine will be a significant step in the global shipbuilding and shipping industry, accelerating the transition to eco-friendly fuel propulsion for ships," said Son Young-chang, Vice President and Head of Hanwha Ocean's Product Strategy Technology Institute.

Baker Hughes operates in more than 120 countries, with a strong presence in small and medium-sized gas turbine technology. The synergy between these companies is expected to drive innovation in decarbonized shipping.

About Hanwha Power Systems

Hanwha Power Systems is a global leader in eco-friendly energy equipment, providing high-quality rotating equipment solutions. The company develops 100% oil-free compressors, sCO2, and hydrogen turbines, leading advancements in maritime decarbonization.

About Hanwha Ocean

Hanwha Ocean is a leader in shipbuilding and offshore industries, known for its highly efficient LNG carriers and commitment to marine decarbonization solutions. Since 1973, Hanwha Ocean has produced a vast range of vessels, supporting the transition to sustainable global shipping.

SOURCE: Hanwha Power Systems