A Japanese group of companies is studying the possibility of commercial operations for a hydrogen-biofuel hybrid vessel in an effort to reduce carbon emissions.
The six firms have signed an agreement to consider developing vessels that consume hydrogen and biofuel as a bunker fuel, modelled on a domestic cruise ship in Kitakyushu city, Fukuoka prefecture. The partnership brings together shipping firm Mitsui OSK Line's subsidiary Mol Techno-Trade, cruise operator Kanmon Line, marine and industrial engine manufacturer Yanmar, industrial gas producer Taiyo Nippon Sanso, shipbuilder Hongawara Shipyard, as well as insurance firms Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire Insurance.
The Japanese government has set a goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 2030 by 46pc compared with 2013, spurring Japan's shipping industry to accelerate their decarbonisation efforts.
