The boom in green ammonia production is slowing as, despite long-term sustainability goals, fading carbon incentives and high production costs—often $700–$1400 per tonne, far above traditional grey ammonia—make projects economically unviable. Fertiliser executives warn that the green transition cannot succeed with "red numbers," forcing a slowdown in investment as reliance on fossil-fuel-based ammonia persists.

The boom in green ammonia production is slowing as, despite long-term sustainability goals, fading carbon incentives and high production costs—often $700–$1400 per tonne, far above traditional grey ammonia—make projects economically unviable. Fertiliser executives warn that the green transition cannot succeed with "red numbers," forcing a slowdown in investment as reliance on fossil-fuel-based ammonia persists. 

Key Factors in the Waning Green 

Ammonia Boom:
High "Green Premium":
 Green ammonia costs significantly more than conventional ammonia, with premiums reaching around $126 per metric tonne (a 24.5% increase) as of early 2025.
Declining Incentives:-
 Reduced government subsidies and carbon price signals are weakening the economic incentive to adopt costlier, low-carbon alternatives.
Production Costs: -
While costs are projected to drop to $480 per tonne by 2030, current high renewable energy and electrolyser expenses keep green ammonia less competitive than fossil-based (grey) ammonia.
Industry Caution:-
 Companies are hesitant to invest in large-scale projects without stronger, guaranteed financial support or carbon pricing, creating a "red numbers" barrier. 
Industry Outlook and Challenges
Decarbonization Hurdles: -
While green ammonia is vital for reducing emissions in shipping and fertilizers, the industry requires a carbon price reduction of roughly $150$150 per tonne of CO2CO2 to become competitive.
Regional Differences: -
While some regions like India rely on incentives to bridge the gap, global market volatility and weakening policy support are causing a general slowdown in the sector's momentum.
Long-term Potential: -
Despite the current slowdown,green ammonia is still considered a crucial future fuel and chemical carrier for decarbonizing the shipping and industrial sectors. 

MJF Lion ER YK Sharma 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Solar Generation in Night hrs

Hydrogen at home — It's the end of solar and wind power

State-wise carbon emissions in India show a concentration in western and southern states, with byd as major emitters, particularly from the manufacturing and energy sectors. The highest total CO2 emissions have been linked to states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, though the specific ranking can vary depending on the data year and the specific pollutants included.