Hitachi Zosen Corporation (Hitachi Zosen), Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), and YANMAR POWER TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. (Yanmar PT) have accomplished a remarkable 93.8% reduction rate in methane slip from LNG-fueled vessels. This groundbreaking achievement, achieved at an engine load rate of 100%, marks a pioneering advancement in the global maritime industry.
The innovative technology developed by the trio, aimed at curbing methane slip from LNG-fueled vessels, has garnered international recognition. Adopted by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), the project received validation from ClassNK (NK) through the Statement of Fact (SOF), a first-of-its-kind acknowledgment globally.
The project’s objective is ambitious yet imperative: to achieve a 70% or higher reduction in methane slip from LNG-fueled vessels by integrating methane oxidation catalysts and engine improvements. Spanning a six-year period from fiscal 2021 to fiscal 2026, this initiative seeks to implement methane slip reduction technology in marine transportation, positioning the industry as a frontrunner in emission mitigation efforts.
The journey towards this milestone began in 2022 when Hitachi Zosen and Yanmar PT unveiled the “Methane Oxidation Catalyst System,” a pivotal innovation designed to oxidize methane emitted from LNG-fueled marine engines. Following rigorous testing and evaluation, the system received NK’s “Approval in Principle,” laying the groundwork for subsequent advancements.
December 2023 marked a pivotal moment as a land-based test yielded a remarkable reduction rate of 93.8%, surpassing the initial target and earning the vessel the distinction of being the first in the world to receive the SOF from NK. The resounding success of this endeavor led to its endorsement by NEDO for continued support, underscoring its significance in the pursuit of sustainable maritime solutions.
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will commence in the autumn of 2024 with a demonstration test slated to be conducted on a large coal carrier, named REIMEI, operated by MOL. This pivotal step underscores the commitment of industry stakeholders to drive tangible progress in environmental stewardship.
In the broader context of global efforts to combat climate change, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a comprehensive plan in July 2023 aimed at achieving zero emissions by approximately 2050. Against this backdrop, the maritime cluster has intensified efforts to develop innovative technologies that mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from ships.
While alternative fuels such as methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen are under consideration, LNG remains a prominent option for reducing emissions in the maritime sector. Nonetheless, the issue of methane slip poses a significant challenge to its widespread adoption.
Through collaborative endeavors like the methane slip reduction project, Hitachi Zosen, MOL, and Yanmar PT are spearheading initiatives to address this challenge head-on. By pioneering advancements in green maritime technology, they are poised to make substantial contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a more sustainable future for global marine transportation.