MOL and Euglena complete Japan’s first renewable diesel fuel sea trial of a large ferry

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., MOL Ferry Co., Ltd., and biotechnology firm Euglena Co., Ltd on Tuesday (29 March) said they have completed a sea trial of the MOL Ferry-owned/operated ferry Sunflower Shiretoko using renewable diesel fuel marketed by Euglena.

The renewable diesel fuel used for the sea trial at the Port of Oarai in Ibaraki Prefecture was made from biomass, and can be used without changing the specifications of conventional diesel-powered marine engines.

The material complies with SOx regulations because, unlike heavy fuel oil, it contains no sulphur.

In addition, the biofuel produces net zero CO2 emissions when used. This is because even though the biofuel emits CO2 at the combustion stage, its feedstock absorbs CO2 by photosynthesis in the growth process – hence, a carbon neutral state.

A special guest at a ceremony for the sea trial was Oarai Town Mayor Yutaka Kunii, who had encouraging words for the sea trial team: “I’m happy that such an advanced project is being conducted in our town. We would like to firmly set our vision for the future and move ahead together.”

Photo credit: Mitsui O.S.K. Lines
Published: 30 March, 2022