Japan’s Itochu Corporation, Itochu Enex, Ube Industries and Uyeno Transtech reached an agreement to work together on the supply of marine ammonia fuel and the development of supply sites in Japan.
The greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction strategy adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) calls for a 40 per cent improvement in efficiency by 2030 compared to 2008 and a 50 per cent total reduction compared with 2008 by the year 2050. It also calls for the zero emissions as early as possible in Japan. To meet these goals, the early development of ships designed to be zero emission vessels is expected.
In order to achieve the development of ships that use ammonia as their main fuel, as it is a candidate for alternative fuels, the stable supply of marine ammonia fuel and the development of supply sites are considered essential elements.
This latest joint development effort is not only focused on developing supply sites for marine ammonia fuel inside Japan, but is also a part of an integrated project that includes the joint development of ammonia fuel ships, the ownership and operation of these ships, the introduction of marine ammonia fuel and facilities for the supply of that fuel.
Under the agreement, ITOCHU will develop marine ammonia fuel supply sites and fuel supply vessels, Ube Industries will undertake research and development on the supply of marine ammonia fuel and on the development of the onshore facilities required for its supply, Uyeno Transtech will conduct research and development into marine ammonia fuel supply vessels and into the formulation of safety standards for refueling, and ITOCHU ENEX will conduct research and development into ammonia fuel supply sites in Japan.