In a major step towards reducing carbon emissions in maritime transport, Japan’s leading shipping company, NYK Line, has successfully completed the country’s first biofuel trial on a coal carrier serving a domestic power utility company. This groundbreaking test was conducted on Noshiro Maru, a coal carrier operated for Tohoku Electric Power, beginning on February 9. The biofuel for this trial was supplied by Mitsubishi Corporation Energy, marking an important milestone in Japan’s efforts to integrate sustainable fuels into the shipping industry.

According to NYK, this trial represents the first time a coal carrier in Japan has been used to test biofuels for a domestic power company. Biofuels, which are produced from organic materials such as agricultural waste and used cooking oil, are considered a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. They are particularly valuable because they generate nearly zero net CO2 emissions when combusted. Given their compatibility with conventional heavy fuel oil-powered ship engines, biofuels are viewed as a key solution in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during the industry’s transition toward zero-emission fuels.

NYK has emphasized the importance of incorporating biofuels and other next-generation energy sources as part of its broader sustainability strategy. The company sees biofuels as a viable short- to medium-term solution while the industry works toward the development and commercialization of alternative low-carbon and zero-emission fuels. Unlike some other alternative fuels that require new engine technologies, biofuels can be seamlessly integrated into existing ship engines, making them an attractive option for reducing emissions in the short term.

To accelerate the adoption of sustainable marine fuels, NYK launched a specialized test engine facility in October 2024. This facility is designed to evaluate the safety, efficiency, and performance of new fuels, helping to streamline the review process. With this initiative, NYK aims to significantly reduce the time required to bring new fuels into practical use, targeting a development timeline of just three months.

Despite their advantages, the long-term use of biofuels faces potential challenges. A recent white paper published by classification society DNV pointed out that biofuel supply may be limited in the future, which could impact their widespread adoption. As demand for sustainable fuels grows, industries will need to address concerns related to feedstock availability, production capacity, and cost efficiency.

Nonetheless, NYK remains committed to exploring and implementing sustainable solutions that will help decarbonize the shipping sector. This biofuel trial represents an important step forward, not only for NYK but for Japan’s maritime industry as a whole. Moving forward, NYK plans to expand its use of biofuels and continue investing in research and development of alternative fuels to support global efforts in reducing carbon emissions. By taking proactive measures, NYK aims to lead the industry in transitioning to a cleaner, more sustainable future for maritime transport.