In Japan, Japan Engine Corporation began co-firing operations with ammonia on the country’s first domestically developed large low-speed marine engine, as part of a government-backed initiative under the Green Innovation Fund to cut emissions from international shipping.
This is the first full-scale version of the engine J-ENG began testing in 2023, which demonstrated “stable operation at high ammonia co-firing rates and safe handling of ammonia.” The unit is slated for shipment in October and will power an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier in sea trials.
To prepare for commercial rollout, J-ENG announced plans to build a new production plant to manufacture ammonia-capable engines at scale. The facility, supported by subsidies from Japan’s Ministry of the Environment and Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, is financed through GX Economic Transition Bonds and is scheduled to open in 2028.
The plant will expand capacity for both ammonia and fuel oil engine production, enabling broader deployment of zero-emission vessels. J-ENG said the investment supports its goal to “promote the spread and expansion of zero-emission ships” and help Japan meet its 2050 carbon neutrality target.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
