A plan to install “the world’s first” ammonia storage and refuelling platform in a Scandinavian port has been given the go-ahead from Norwegian safety regulators, marking a significant milestone for the adoption of highly-toxic ammonia in shipping.

Norwegian chemicals giant Yara, which is also an ammonia producer, wants to build the bunkering facility designed by Oslo-based Azane, at the Fjord Base offshore supply port in the Kinn municipality in Norway.

The green light from the Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB), Norway’s safety regulator, paves the way for the facility to begin construction this year, with first operation scheduled for 2025.