The Project Fast Move study, between Ricardo, Brunel University of London, and the Port of Cromarty Firth, will evaluate the feasibility of four-stroke ammonia-fuelled engines in offshore support vessels (OSVs) to support emissions reduction targets.

Part of the Department for Transport-funded UK Shore initiative, the study will assess the use of the hydrogen-based fuel in vessels at the Port of Cromarty Firth in Scotland.

It will also look to understand high-pressure dual-fuel ammonia combustion, and develop combustion system concepts that maximise ammonia substitution rates, as well as assess port and vessel safety.

The study will run until Spring 2026.

OSVs are used to transport supplies, equipment, and personnel to offshore oil, gas, and renewable energy installations. They typically run on marine gas oil, which produces CO₂ and other air pollutants.

With increasing regulatory pushes from the EU and the International Maritime Organization to cut emissions, shipbuilders are looking for cleaner propulsion solutions.

Ammonia is touted as a key future clean fuel for maritime, with existing infrastructure already in place at many ports. However, some studies warn that ammonia combustion could release N₂O and NOx, offsetting climate gains with increased air pollution.

Ricardo’s Global Technical Expert in Sustainable Engines, Richard Osborne, said the study would allow the team to determine whether such engines could offer a “more sustainable solution” in this segment of the maritime sector.