MOL joins global push for e-methane as marine fuel

In Japan, shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines has joined the e-NG Coalition, a Brussels-based international alliance focused on developing e-methane as a low-carbon fuel, bringing the group’s membership to 20 as of March 1.

The coalition, formed in October 2024, promotes e-methane—synthetic methane produced from CO₂ and hydrogen—as a carbon-neutral alternative that can be used in existing LNG-fueled vessels. It aims to establish global supply chains, assessment criteria, and industry collaboration to accelerate adoption.

MOL, one of Japan’s largest shipping firms, stated its participation will support efforts to “establish a stable international supply chain for next-generation fuels and accelerate its initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of the shipping industry.”

E-methane, also known as electric natural gas in Europe and the U.S., is gaining traction due to its compatibility with current LNG infrastructure. The coalition’s activities include policy advocacy, stakeholder collaboration, technical research, and publicizing decarbonization initiatives.

MOL has integrated e-methane into its Blue Action 2035 strategy, aligning with its target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The company plans to expand its role in synthetic fuel supply chains, leveraging its expertise in LNG transport and liquefied CO₂ shipping.

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