- Breakthrough Vessel Enables Dual Transport of CO₂ and Synthetic Methanol.
- New Carrier Boosts Efficiency in Carbon Capture and Green Fuel Supply Chains.
- Japan Advances CCUS with Innovative LCO₂ / Methanol Transport Solution.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) have proudly received Approval in Principle (AiP) from ClassNK for a groundbreaking liquefied CO₂ (LCO₂) / methanol carrier. This achievement marks the first time such an approval has been granted for this type of vessel, reports MHI.
Dual-Use Vessel to Boost Transport Efficiency
This innovative vessel is crafted to carry captured CO₂ on its outbound trips and synthetic methanol on the way back. In the past, ships would typically transport either CO₂ or methanol and return empty, which was far from efficient. By adopting this dual-transport approach, we can eliminate those empty journeys, significantly improving both economic and operational efficiency.
Synthetic Methanol and CCUS Progress
As interest in CO₂ utilization technologies continues to rise, synthetic methanol, created from captured CO₂, is emerging as a promising marine fuel. This new carrier plays a vital role in establishing a supply chain for synthetic methanol, fitting seamlessly into broader Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) strategies.
Strategic Partnership for Decarbonization
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and MOL are committed to bringing the LCO₂ / methanol carrier to market by collaborating with partners throughout the supply chain. This initiative is in line with MHI Group’s energy transition strategy and its dedication to innovation in marine engineering.
MOL’s Dedication to Sustainability
MOL is actively investing in synthetic fuel projects, including partnerships with HIF Global LLC, to create methanol and CO₂ supply chains in the Americas and Australia. This vessel is crucial for helping MOL achieve its ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, as detailed in its Environmental Vision 2.2.
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Source: MHI
