Tokyo-Mitsui O.S.K. Lines launches Japan’s first hydrogen and biofuel hybrid passenger ship

Japan’s first hydrogen and biofuel hybrid passenger ship has been launched by Tokyo-Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. The naming and launching ceremony for the Hanaria was held on September 13. The vessel was ordered by MOL Group company Motena-Sea and is under construction at the Hongawara Ship Yard.

The ship is scheduled to be delivered in next March 2024 and will start operations in Fukuoka Prefecture the following month. The ship is expected to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by 53%-100% compared to conventional fossil fuels vessels. This is because users can choose to operate the ship with either hydrogen fuel cells, lithium-ion batteries or biodiesel fuel.

This ship forms part of MOL Group’s goal to reach net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, in part through the introduction of next-generation bunkering vessels.

To find out more about the electric and hybrid marine technology industry’s latest marine renewables developments, click here.