Pilbara Ports advances plans to lead clean ammonia export effort

NH3 Clean Energy Ltd, formerly Hexagon Energy Materials Ltd, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pilbara Ports Authority to explore the export of 600,000 tons per year (tpy) of clean ammonia from the WAH2 Project. This agreement underscores the growing momentum behind ammonia as a key component of the global clean energy transition, particularly in agribusiness and maritime industries.

Strengthening Infrastructure for Clean Ammonia

The non-binding MoU sets the framework for a 12-month collaboration between NH3 and Pilbara Ports to define operational and commercial agreements that will facilitate the large-scale export of ammonia. The ammonia will be transported from NH3’s WAH2 plant to the Port of Dampier via a dedicated new-build pipeline situated in an existing infrastructure corridor. From there, it will be loaded at the Dampier Bulk Liquids Berth, a crucial facility for bulk exports.

This development is particularly significant for the agricultural sector, where ammonia plays a central role in fertilizer production. The ability to source clean ammonia supports sustainability goals and reduces the carbon footprint of fertilizer manufacturing.

Expanding Ammonia’s Role in Decarbonization

Beyond its agricultural applications, NH3’s ammonia export plan aligns with broader efforts to decarbonize key industries. The MoU includes provisions for ship loading not only for international export but also for bunkering operations. NH3 has an existing agreement with Oceania Marine Energy to develop an ammonia bunkering vessel that will supply clean fuel to bulk carriers transporting iron ore from the Pilbara. This initiative supports the decarbonization of Australia’s iron ore exports and strengthens Dampier’s potential as a global hub for clean fuel refueling.

Progressing Toward Commercialization

The WAH2 Project continues to advance, having recently completed Pre-FEED engineering, gas supply agreements, and CO2 transport arrangements. NH3 anticipates achieving Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) entry by the end of Q1 2025, with a final investment decision (FID) targeted for the first half of 2026.

To facilitate discussions with potential partners, NH3 has established a WAH2 Project data room, providing access to technical and commercial details. The company is already engaged with over a dozen potential offtake and strategic partners, reflecting strong market interest in clean ammonia as a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.

A Strategic Vision for Pilbara

Charles Whitfield, NH3’s Chairman, highlighted Pilbara Ports’ commitment to becoming a key player in the clean ammonia market. He explained that Pilbara Ports had shown strong support and enthusiasm for positioning themselves as a central hub for clean ammonia handling, both for the international market and marine fuel. Whitfield also noted that the pace of project milestones would continue to accelerate as they aim for a final investment decision (FID) in the first half of 2026.

With ammonia’s dual role as an agricultural input and a clean energy carrier, the WAH2 Project represents a crucial step in bridging traditional agribusiness needs with future sustainability imperatives. As NH3 and Pilbara Ports refine their collaboration, the impact of clean ammonia on global supply chains, fertilizer production, and industrial decarbonization is set to expand significantly.