Japanese Ship Produces First Supply of Green Hydrogen

Japanese shipping giant, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), has achieved a world-first by producing green hydrogen at sea and delivering it onshore.

This milestone, part of the Wind Hunter Project, was accomplished using the demonstration yacht Winz Maru, which harnesses offshore wind energy to sustainably generate hydrogen.

The vessel successfully supplied the precious fuel to the central breakwater area of Tokyo after undergoing extensive trials in Omura Bay between 2021 and 2023. MOL converted the hydrogen into methylcyclohexane (MCH), a more stable form for transport and handling, which marks a key step toward a sustainable hydrogen supply chain.

Winz Maru operates using wind power and underwater turbines to generate electricity, which is then used to extract hydrogen from seawater. The stored material can later be converted back into electricity when wind conditions are insufficient, ensuring continuous power generation.

Looking ahead, MOL aims to produce approximately 100 standard cubic metres of hydrogen (equivalent to 200 litres of MCH) in 2025, supplying electricity to facilities in Tokyo Bay.

With an eye on developing a larger demonstration vessel, the Tokyo-based firm intends to commence commercial operations in the early 2030s.

This breakthrough reinforces Japan’s leadership in hydrogen technology, aligning with the nation’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Additionally, MOL plans to showcase the Wind Hunter Project at Expo 2025 next month in Osaka, emphasising its potential to revolutionise both clean energy and maritime transport.

By integrating hydrogen production with emission-free shipping, MOL’s initiative represents a major step toward a greener, more sustainable future.

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