JERA, NYK Line, and Resonac collaborated for Pioneering Ammonia Fuel Supply to Ships

JERA Inc. has recently inked a collaborative agreement with NYK Line and Resonac, marking a pivotal step towards realizing the ambitious goal of supplying fuel ammonia to ships on a global scale. The core objective of this joint venture is to achieve the world's first-ever implementation of a fuel ammonia supply system for maritime vessels. This strategic partnership is not only a significant leap forward in sustainable energy solutions but also a testament to the commitment of these entities to address climate change challenges.

The collaborative initiative is intricately tied to JERA's overarching commitment to achieving zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2050, known as the JERA Zero CO2 Emissions 2050 objective. This ambitious goal extends beyond the borders of Japan, encompassing both domestic and international operations. To meet this target, the trio of JERA, NYK Line, and Resonac are embracing the challenge of constructing a robust hydrogen and ammonia supply chain. The successful implementation of such a supply chain is integral to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions across diverse sectors.

At the heart of this groundbreaking venture is the joint study focusing on the supply of fuel ammonia to ships. What makes this initiative particularly noteworthy is its departure from conventional decarbonization solutions limited to the power generation sector. Instead, it explores the utilization of ammonia as ship fuel, presenting a multi-purpose decarbonization approach that has far-reaching implications for various industrial sectors.

Ammonia stands out as a key player in this initiative due to its unique characteristic of emitting no CO2 when burned. This property makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuels, promising a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during maritime operations. As ships are notorious for their significant carbon footprint, transitioning to ammonia as a fuel source holds the potential to revolutionize the maritime industry's impact on the environment.

The collaborative agreement entails a comprehensive joint study by JERA, NYK Line, and Resonac, with a specific focus on achieving the supply of fuel ammonia to a tugboat. What sets this study apart is the incorporation of a domestically produced ammonia-fueled engine, a key aspect being researched and developed by NYK Line. This engine development is part of the Green Innovation Fund project, facilitated under the auspices of Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

The significance of this collaborative venture extends beyond technological innovation. It symbolizes a commitment to a sustainable future and the urgent need to transition away from traditional fossil fuels. Achieving the vision of a hydrogen and ammonia supply chain, as outlined by JERA's Zero CO2 Emissions 2050 objective, requires not only technical expertise but also a collective determination to drive change.