Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) reports that the future low-emission ammonia marine engine project led by UK company Carnot, in conjunction with MOL group company, MOL (Europe Africa) has been selected for the UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 6 (CMDC6).
CMDC6 is part of a suite of interventions launched by the UK shipping office for reducing emissions (UK SHORE) which aims to transform the UK into a global leader in the design and manufacturing of clean maritime technology.
The project is led by a consortium headed by Carnot, in which MOL has invested. Carnot is developing engine technology that eliminates energy loss during the cooling process and significantly increases thermal efficiency and fuel efficiency by using highly heat-resistant materials. MOL (Europe Africa) is participating as a consortium member of the project, alongside UK-based businesses and academic institutions including De Courcy Alexander, Houlder, Clean Air Power GT and the University of Southampton. The project plans to deliver an ammonia auxiliary engine retrofit solution, enabling shipping companies to reduce GHG emissions and operation costs.
The project will focus on optimising ammonia technology, with the University of Southampton providing advanced combustion simulations and Clean Air Power GT developing a high-flow ammonia injector. Houlder will provide technical expertise for the integration of the ammonia auxiliary engine. De Courcy Alexander will support commercialisation efforts by assessing market potential, competitive landscape, risks, and strategies to accelerate adoption. MOL (Europe Africa) will contribute operational insights, fleet management expertise, and strategic guidance on implementing technology and future fuels. MOL believes its input will be instrumental in shaping a phased adoption strategy to ensure practical deployment.
MOL has placed initiatives to address sustainability issues at the core of its ‘Blue Action 2035’ management plan, aiming to achieve sustainable growth that contributes to social issues and addresses environmental issues.
Image: Agreement by MOL and Carnot earlier in 2025 (source: Carnot)
