MOL’s Winz Maru Makes History with Green Hydrogen Supply

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has achieved a significant milestone in the realm of sustainable energy with its innovative Wind Hunter Project. The company recently announced the successful supply of green hydrogen produced from offshore wind by the demonstration yacht Winz Maru to onshore facilities in Tokyo.

This groundbreaking feat marks the first time in the world that a ship has supplied green hydrogen, generated while underway, for use on shore. MOL’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions is evident in its successful demonstration test conducted in Omura Bay, Sasebo City, between FY 2021 and FY 2023 with the Winz Maru.

The demonstration test encompassed all stages of hydrogen production, storage, and onboard usage, showcasing MOL’s technological prowess and dedication to sustainability. Building on this success, MOL has shifted its focus to supplying domestically produced green hydrogen from the Winz Maru to onshore facilities in Tokyo Bay.

The Winz Maru streamlines the handling and transportation of hydrogen by converting produced green hydrogen to methylcyclohexane (MCH) onboard the vessel, addressing the challenges associated with hydrogen gas. To ensure a steady supply, MOL has upgraded the MCH tanks and incorporated turbine generators into the vessel.

Safety measures have also been enhanced to navigate the rougher sea conditions in Tokyo Bay compared to Omura Bay, demonstrating MOL’s commitment to operational excellence and safety standards. Looking ahead, MOL plans to ramp up its green hydrogen production activities in Tokyo Bay, aiming to produce approximately 100 Nm3 of hydrogen or the equivalent of about 200 liters of MCH in FY 2025.

In addition to supplying electricity to onshore facilities in Tokyo, MOL is actively exploring the potential for hydrogen supply and studying the development of a large demonstration vessel for the Wind Hunter project. The company envisions establishing a robust hydrogen value chain domestically in the future, with plans to construct and commercialize a large demonstration vessel by the 2030s.

As MOL continues to drive innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry, the successful supply of green hydrogen from the Winz Maru heralds a new era of clean energy solutions and underscores the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.