NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. (NS United) disclosed on 14 May 2024 that, in collaboration with Nippon Shipyard Co., Ltd. (NSY), Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., and Japan Marine United Corporation, they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the construction of Cape-size bulk carriers equipped with dual methanol fuel capabilities. These vessels, considered next-generation fuel vessels, were jointly researched by NSY and NS United. The ship will represent an environmentally friendly next-generation vessel with a deadweight of 209,000 tons, intended for transporting raw materials both domestically in Japan and internationally.

These vessels will comply with Phase 3 of the EEDI (EEDI stands for "Energy Efficiency Design Index," representing the standardized measurement of CO2 emissions per ton of cargo transported over a distance of one mile) regulations, requiring a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions efficiency compared to EEDI standards, which applies to bulk carriers entering into shipbuilding contracts from 2025 onwards. Additionally, they will feature a dual-fuel engine capable of running on methanol fuel, known for its minimal environmental footprint, alongside traditional heavy fuel oil.

Methanol is poised to play a pivotal role in the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction strategy outlined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with maritime industries and fuel producers actively developing it as a marine fuel. As the utilization of green methanol as a marine fuel is anticipated to slash GHG emissions by over 80% compared to conventional heavy fuel oil, NS United is committed to collaborating with various stakeholders involved in fuel development to procure green methanol. The introduction of dual-fuel methanol vessels marks a significant milestone in our journey toward attaining our environmental objective of achieving "GHG Net Zero by 2050."

NS United is committed to furthering the achievement of a sustainable society by enhancing efforts towards achieving carbon neutrality, as delineated in the Medium-Term Business Plan "FORWARD 2030 II Challenge for innovation and further growth with U," aiming to bolster the company's corporate value.

The vessel's specifications include a total length of approximately 299.99 meters, a mold width of around 50 meters, and a mold depth of about 25 meters. With a summer load of approximately 18.40 meters, it boasts a deadweight tonnage of roughly 209,000 MT. Scheduled for completion in 2027 or later, this vessel represents a significant addition to the maritime landscape, poised to navigate the seas with impressive dimensions and capabilities.

Established on April 1, 1950, NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. operates with a capital of 10.3 billion yen, with its headquarters situated in the Otemachi 1st Square West Tower in Japan. The company extends its reach globally with overseas subsidiaries in key locations including the United Kingdom, United States, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines, alongside representative offices in Thailand, Shanghai, and Vietnam. With a non-consolidated employee count of 232 and a consolidated count of 657, NS United specializes in international marine transportation services and related businesses. The company's impressive fleet includes 131 ocean-going vessels with a total deadweight tonnage of 13,451 Kt and 77 coastal vessels with a combined tonnage of 235 Kt.