JERA Makes History with First Truck-to-Ship Bunkering of Fuel Ammonia

JERA Co., Inc. announced that on July 17, 2024, it successfully conducted the world's first truck-to-ship bunkering of fuel ammonia. This operation was carried out for an ammonia-fueled tugboat (“A-Tug”) owned by NYK Line, with the process expected to be completed by late August 2024.

The fuel ammonia bunkering conducted on 17 July 2024 took place at Yokohama Port’s Honmoku Pier, with the support of the Yokohama City Port and Harbor Bureau and as part of the fuel supply agreement JERA signed with NYK on May 27, 2024. The ammonia used was produced by Resonac Corporation at its Kawasaki Plant, utilizing waste plastic as a raw material. This fuel ammonia will also be used for the A-Tug’s upcoming sea trial. Once the A-Tug is operational, JERA will maintain its supply of fuel ammonia to the operator, Shin-Nippon Kaiyosha Corporation.

Given the toxicity of ammonia and the need for stringent safety protocols, JERA engaged in extensive discussions with stakeholders, including NYK and Resonac, leading up to this bunkering. JERA established procedures for the safe handling of fuel ammonia, developed a secure system for its transport to and reception at the port, and implemented safety measures for potential leak scenarios.

As part of its Zero CO2 Emissions 2050 initiative, JERA is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions across its domestic and international operations by 2050. To this end, the company is advancing the development of hydrogen and ammonia supply chains. The fuel ammonia bunkering for ships marks JERA's initial foray into decarbonization solutions that go beyond power generation and into other industrial sectors. As a trailblazer in fuel ammonia, JERA is committed to advancing its use across various industries, extending its impact beyond just power generation.

Moreover, using ammonia as marine fuel, which produces no CO2 emissions when burned, allows for a substantial decrease in greenhouse gas emissions while at sea compared to traditional fuels. We believe this will play a crucial role in achieving zero-emissions shipping in the future.

JERA's mission is to deliver innovative solutions to the world's energy challenges. Through its global operations, the company brings cutting-edge energy solutions to Japan, addressing the country's specific energy needs. JERA aims to develop new energy supply models tailored for Japan while also sharing its established models with other nations facing similar energy issues. By doing so, JERA contributes to solving global energy problems and advancing sustainable energy practices worldwide.

JERA’s vision is to broaden its clean energy platform by emphasizing renewables and low greenhouse gas thermal power, with the goal of fostering sustainable development throughout Asia and around the world. By scaling up these clean energy solutions, JERA aims to lead the transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible energy future, fostering progress and innovation in the pursuit of reduced carbon emissions and enhanced energy security worldwide.