Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) is leading an all-star Japanese team in a strategic push into electrically powered vessels.
The four-member partnership also includes Asahi Tanker Co, Exeno Yamamizu Corp and trading house giant Mitsubishi Corp.
They have established a new company – e5 Lab Inc – that will work to “develop and promote the greater use of relatively clean modes of marine transport”.
MOL said e5 Lab, which stands for - electrification, environment, evolution, efficiency and economics - will have an initial paid up capital of JPY 50m ($470,000).
“There are a number of challenges facing Japan's shipping industry, which e5 Lab will seek to address by consolidating the technologies, know-how and networks of its four major shareholders,” MOL said.
“The new company will develop a platform to provide a lineup of services that takes advantage of electrically powered vessels and other cutting-edge technologies.
“The aim is to leverage this platform to encourage sustainable growth and development within the marine shipping industry.”
MOL said e5 Lab will specifically look to address seven issues including greenhouse gasses, improved onboard working conditions, improved ship maintenance, autonomous sailing, rechargeable batteries, a sustainable growth model and standard setting procedures for new green technologies.
The first objective for e5 Lab will be to build the world’s first zero-emission tanker by the middle of 2021.
The tanker will be a coastal vessel powered by large-capacity batteries and will operate in Tokyo Bay.
Furthermore, MOL said the e5 Lab will “actively promote” the electrification of both coastal and ocean-going vessels, and pool the technologies, human resources and operational know-how needed to achieve the 50% GHG reduction target of the IMO.
Other support companies and groups include Japan Railway Construction, Transport and Technology Agency (JRTT), ClassNK, Shipbuilding Research Centre of Japan, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Tokyo Electric Power Co, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co as wel as several other energy companies.
