Sarawak-Japan Collaboration for Clean Hydrogen Production Advancement
Key Ideas
- Sarawak government partners with ENEOS Corporation to develop a competitive supply chain for clean hydrogen production in the form of methylcyclohexane (MCH).
- Initiative aims to lower hydrogen production costs and boost Sarawak's position in the global hydrogen market by converting hydrogen into liquid MCH for bulk delivery to Japan.
- Sarawak prioritizes hydrogen production through MCH, aiming to produce 240,000 tonnes by 2028–2029, with ENEOS focusing on next-gen energy sources for a carbon-neutral society.
- ENEOS Corporation commits to R&D for hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and biofuels to ensure a stable energy supply and develop innovative materials for future energy solutions.
The Sarawak government is enhancing its partnership with Japan's ENEOS Corporation to collaborate on developing a competitive supply chain for clean hydrogen production in the form of methylcyclohexane (MCH). This joint initiative spearheaded by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg aims to bring down hydrogen production costs and elevate Sarawak's standing in the global hydrogen market through the conversion of hydrogen into liquid MCH for efficient delivery to Japan.
The partnership, known as the Hornbill Project, focuses on transforming hydrogen from its gaseous state into the more transportable MCH form, enabling convenient transportation to Japan for industrial purposes. This transition not only streamlines the production process but also benefits Sarawak as a hydrogen producer and other key markets like Japan and potentially other industries.
Abang Johari emphasized the importance of advancing hydrogen production through MCH and utilizing cutting-edge technology that allows on-site processing at the plant, marking a shift from the traditional method of exporting raw hydrogen for processing. The ambitious target is to produce 240,000 tonnes of hydrogen by 2028–2029, aligning with Japan's efforts in hydrogen projects that include eco-friendly energy sources.
ENEOS Corporation, a notable player in Japan's energy sector supplying 20% of the country's primary energy, is dedicated to driving progress in next-generation energy sources such as hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and biofuels. As part of its commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society, ENEOS is actively engaged in research and development leveraging digital technologies to ensure a reliable energy supply and develop innovative materials for future energy solutions.