MB Energy, Fertiglobe and Covestro to explore ammonia supply chain in Europe

German bunker supplier MB Energy, polymer manufacturer Covestro and fertiliser producer Fertiglobe have agreed to explore collaboration across the ammonia value chain in Germany and wider Europe.

IMAGE: Gantry cranes at the Port of Hamburg. Hamburg Port Authority

Under the agreement, Fertiglobe will assess the potential supply of ammonia through an import terminal that MB Energy plans to develop and operate at Blumensand in Hamburg. Fertiglobe will also consider taking an equity stake in the proposed terminal.

The companies will jointly evaluate the commercial, technical and logistical requirements for handling ammonia through Hamburg, including terminal capacity, potential volumes, delivery arrangements and onward distribution to industrial customers.

In April, MB Energy secured a permit to build and operate the new ammonia import terminal in Hamburg, which could also support bunkering operations in the future.

The energy company will build a new tank for the temporary storage of imported ammonia, as well as upgrade the existing berth for inland barges and seagoing vessels “to facilitate the import of this energy source.” The terminal is scheduled for completion by 2029.

Hamburg is simultaneously strengthening its readiness to handle ammonia as a marine fuel. In July, the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) introduced safety and operational guidelines for ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia bunkering, laying the groundwork for such operations at the port.

Prior to the introduction of guidelines, a risk assessment for STS ammonia bunkering was conducted at MB Energy's existing Blumensand terminal in Hamburg.

By Tuhin Roy

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