The Port of Hamburg is preparing for the arrival of ammonia-powered vessels by developing the necessary safety and supply infrastructure.

On 21 July, the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and integrated energy company MB Energy announced the completion of a comprehensive risk assessment and dedicated safety concept for ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering.

Developed with input from terminal operators, shipping representatives and local authorities, the framework examines the safety requirements for storing, transferring and bunkering ammonia within the port. Future operations are expected to serve container ships, cruise vessels, RoRo ships and ConRo vessels.

HPA expects ammonia to become an important alternative marine fuel in the coming years. The preparatory work is intended to enable Hamburg to receive and safely bunker the first ammonia-powered vessels calling at the port.

To support future fuel availability, MB Energy plans to develop an ammonia import terminal at Hamburg-Blumensand from 2029. The company said the terminal would provide reliable landside supply infrastructure for Hamburg and other northern German ports.

The potential deployment of an ammonia bunkering barge is also being explored. Such a vessel could complement shore-based infrastructure and provide greater flexibility for bunkering operations within the port and surrounding waters.

MB Energy was formerly known as Mabanaft Group. The company adopted its new name in 2025 and consolidated more than 50 existing brands under a single identity.

The completion of the risk assessment and safety framework does not mean that routine commercial ammonia bunkering is already available in Hamburg. Further progress will depend on the construction of import, storage and bunkering infrastructure, as well as the development of relevant regulations and technical standards.