Japan Develops First Hydrogen Engine for Large Ships, Cutting Emissions by 95%

Tokyo (ANTARA) – Japanese marine engine manufacturer Japan Engine Corp. has developed the world’s first hydrogen-fuelled engine for large commercial ships, after unveiling the innovation to the public in early September.

The engine is said to be capable of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than 95 per cent compared with conventional heavy fuel oil engines.

The engine is expected to be used on a multipurpose ship to be built by Onomichi Dockyard Co. Shipping operator Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. will conduct onboard demonstration tests in April 2028.

The engine uses a high-pressure direct-injection system to achieve stable hydrogen combustion.

Given hydrogen’s flammability and risk of leakage, the developers have introduced strict safety standards, including double-walled piping throughout the fuel supply lines.

In August, Japan Engine, based in Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, also completed the world’s first commercial ammonia-fuelled engine.

Hydrogen and ammonia are currently regarded as the most promising potential next-generation fuels for large commercial ships.

However, the use of hydrogen is still hampered by high production costs and slow technology adoption, while ammonia requires strict risk-management protocols because it is toxic.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping by 2050, an agenda strongly supported by the Japanese government.

Source: Kyodo-OANA