Hanwha Power Systems Earns ABS Approval in Principle for Ammonia Fuel Gas Turbine Retrofit on 174K LNG Carriers
Hanwha Power Systems has marked a major milestone in the path toward maritime decarbonization by receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for its ammonia fuel gas turbine retrofit design targeting 174K LNG carriers. The announcement was made at Gastech 2025, one of the world’s largest and most influential gatherings for the energy and shipping industries, held this year in Milan, Italy.
This AiP recognition stems from a joint development project established between Hanwha and ABS on August 13, 2025. Within just a short timeframe, Hanwha Power Systems successfully carried out the core engineering design work and completed rigorous safety verifications, underscoring its ability to quickly deliver advanced, future-ready maritime solutions.
Ammonia: A Key Fuel for Carbon Neutral Shipping
Ammonia, composed of nitrogen and hydrogen, has emerged as one of the most promising next-generation fuels for shipping. Unlike conventional marine fuels, ammonia does not emit carbon dioxide when burned, allowing it to play a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) target of achieving carbon neutrality in the shipping industry by 2050, alongside the rollout of stricter environmental regulations across the globe.
Hanwha Power Systems is at the forefront of this transition. The company is developing a vessel propulsion system capable of operating on 100% ammonia fuel, eliminating the need for even small quantities of pilot oil, which is typically required for ignition in alternative fuel systems. By removing reliance on pilot fuels, Hanwha’s solution represents a true leap forward toward zero-carbon vessel operations.
ABS Approval Validates Safety and Technical Readiness
The AiP was granted after ABS conducted a thorough review of Hanwha’s design and safety documentation. The evaluation covered an extensive list of critical engineering deliverables, including:
- Process Flow Diagram (PFD)
- Operation and Control Philosophy
- Equipment List
- General Arrangement (GA) and Machinery Arrangement (MA)
- Toxic Area Detection and Safety Systems
- Emergency Shutdown System (ESD)
- Fire Safety Drawings
- Hazard Identification (HAZID) Report
ABS’s approval officially confirms that Hanwha Power Systems’ ammonia-fueled gas turbine retrofit complies with international safety standards for alternative-fueled vessels. For shipowners and operators considering future retrofits, this provides assurance that the technology is not only environmentally promising but also technically and operationally viable.
A Foundation for Retrofit Solutions
With the AiP in hand, Hanwha Power Systems now has a stronger foundation to propose retrofit packages for existing LNG carriers and potentially for other vessel types as well. Retrofits are expected to play a vital role in decarbonization, offering shipowners a way to update their fleets without waiting for entirely newbuild vessels.
By providing an ammonia fuel retrofit option, Hanwha positions itself to collaborate more deeply with global shipowners, shipyards, and classification societies. This approach could accelerate the adoption of ammonia-based propulsion systems across a wide spectrum of commercial vessels, strengthening Hanwha’s role in the global maritime energy transition.
Hyoung-seok Kim, Head of Maritime Solutions Business Division at Hanwha Power Systems, emphasized the broader significance of the approval:
“This AiP achievement demonstrates the technical and commercial viability of gas turbine propulsion systems utilizing ammonia fuel. We will continue to expand cooperation with shipowners, shipyards, and classification societies to progress toward practical application and commercial operation of this technology.”
Showcasing Technology at Gastech 2025
Hanwha Power Systems is showcasing this breakthrough technology during Gastech 2025, held from September 9 to 12 at Fiera Milano in Italy. The exhibition provides an opportunity to highlight not only the ammonia fuel gas turbine but also a broader range of innovative solutions.
Among its highlights, Hanwha is presenting:
- Ship FSRU (Floating Storage Regasification Unit) Modification Technology
- NRS (New Refrigeration Systems) for enhanced energy efficiency
- CO₂ Compressors used in critical carbon capture and storage (CCUS) processes
Together, these solutions reinforce Hanwha’s commitment to supporting global carbon neutrality goals and solidify its reputation as a trusted partner for sustainable shipping and energy systems.
Hanwha Power Systems: A Global Energy Solutions Leader
Founded in 1977, Hanwha Power Systems has evolved into a leading energy solutions provider with a long track record in gas turbine technology. The company officially launched its energy equipment business in 1997 and has since delivered over 7,500 air and gas compressor units worldwide, earning a reputation for reliability and technological excellence.
In 2017, Hanwha Power Systems was relaunched as an independent company, quickly achieving operating surpluses for four consecutive years through 2021. This financial stability laid the foundation for sustainable growth and innovation. In October 2022, the company became a subsidiary of Hanwha Impact, further strengthening its integration into the larger Hanwha Group ecosystem.
With its latest AiP recognition, Hanwha Power Systems has taken a significant step forward in aligning its technologies with the maritime industry’s carbon-free future. By continuing to focus on innovation, safety, and collaboration, the company is poised to play a central role in driving the shipping sector toward its 2050 decarbonization targets.
