J-ENG is making significant strides in the development of ammonia-fueled two-stroke engines as part of the ‘Green Innovation Fund Project: Next-generation Ship Development,’ backed by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). Since May 2023, the company has conducted ammonia co-firing operations on a test engine, gathering valuable data on maintaining stable operations at high ammonia co-firing rates and ensuring safe handling through rigorous testing.
Recently, J-ENG successfully initiated co-firing operations with ammonia on its first full-scale engine, the 7UEC50LSJA-HPSCR, which is set to be installed on an actual vessel. Following the verification of these operations, the engine is expected to be shipped in October 2025, marking a key milestone. The engine will be installed on an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier (AFMGC), with demonstration operations planned to showcase the vessel’s capabilities.
In addition to the 50 cm cylinder bore engine, J-ENG is concurrently developing an ammonia-powered engine with a larger 60 cm cylinder bore, designed for a series of promising follow-up projects.
Looking ahead, J-ENG plans to expand its production capacity with a new plant, supported by a subsidy project from the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism through the GX Economic Transition Bonds. The new facility, slated for completion by 2028, will focus on scaling up the production of ammonia-fueled engines alongside traditional fuel oil engines. This move aligns with J-ENG’s strategy to contribute to the widespread adoption of zero-emission ships.