MOL Demonstrates World's First Offshore Hydrogen Production and Delivery to Tokyo
Key Ideas
  • Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) achieves a groundbreaking milestone by producing hydrogen offshore and delivering it onshore to Tokyo, showcasing the potential of green energy in maritime operations.
  • The demonstration yacht, Winz Maru, was modified to produce green hydrogen from seawater and convert it to a liquid organic hydrogen carrier, enhancing safety and efficiency in handling and transportation.
  • MOL is aiming to significantly increase its hydrogen production capacity in Tokyo Bay, with plans to supply electricity generated from hydrogen to facilities in the central breakwater area of Tokyo, paving the way for sustainable energy initiatives.
  • The company is also working on developing a large demonstration vessel for the Wind Hunter project by the early 2030s, underscoring a long-term commitment to advancing hydrogen energy in the maritime sector.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has accomplished a remarkable feat by successfully producing hydrogen offshore and delivering it onshore to Tokyo, a milestone deemed a world-first in the industry. Through its Wind Hunter Project, MOL utilized the Winz Maru demonstration yacht to produce green hydrogen onboard and convert it into a liquid organic hydrogen carrier known as methylcyclohexane (MCH) for safer handling and transportation. The vessel, equipped with MCH tanks and additional turbine generators, operates as a wind-powered ship that taps into seawater to generate hydrogen, integrating the entire production, storage, and delivery process on a single platform. Since 2023, MOL has been actively involved in supplying domestically produced green hydrogen from the Winz Maru to Tokyo Bay, with demonstration tests conducted in Omura Bay. Transitioning operations to Tokyo Bay required new safety measures, reflecting the company's commitment to operational excellence. Looking ahead, MOL plans to scale its hydrogen production in Tokyo Bay significantly, aiming to produce around 100Nm3 (equivalent to 200 liters of MCH) by 2025 and supply generated electricity to Tokyo's central breakwater area. To further advance its hydrogen initiatives, MOL has initiated work on a large demonstration vessel for the Wind Hunter project, with ambitions to construct and commercialize it by the early 2030s. This strategic move aligns with the company's vision to promote sustainable energy practices in the maritime sector, emphasizing innovation and environmental stewardship. In parallel developments, Lhyfe's Sealhyfe offshore hydrogen production platform in France recently achieved a significant milestone by producing its first kilograms of hydrogen. The collaborative efforts within the industry showcase a growing emphasis on hydrogen as a clean energy alternative, with companies like MOL at the forefront of pioneering advancements in green maritime technologies. By leveraging hydrogen production and distribution capabilities, MOL is poised to contribute significantly to the global shift towards sustainable energy sources.
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