Japanese RORO runs on 10% jatropha oil from Ghana
In Japan, the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana in Tokyo participated in a demonstration of Jatropha-based biofuel for maritime use at Shinagawa Wharf, Tokyo. The exercise was organised by Nippon Biofuel Co., Ltd. in collaboration with Kuribayashi Steamship Co., Ltd., and formed part of ongoing engagements with Japanese private sector actors following the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
The demonstration was conducted under a feasibility study supported by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) as part of the Global South Future-Oriented Co-Creation Project. It assessed the use of Jatropha-derived Straight Vegetable Oil (SVO) as an alternative fuel for maritime transport, in line with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping sector.
The trial involved the use of a biofuel blend comprising approximately 10% Jatropha-derived SVO mixed with conventional heavy fuel oil on a roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessel operating on a domestic shipping route over a seven-day period. The exercise marked a significant step toward practical application of biofuels in Japan’s maritime industry.
Preliminary findings indicate that the fuel can be utilised with minimal modification to existing vessel systems, offering a cost-effective and scalable alternative to more processed biofuels . The initiative contributes to global decarbonisation efforts and supports compliance with emissions targets set by the International Maritime Organization.
During discussions, Nippon Biofuel Co., Ltd. indicated plans to expand Jatropha cultivation in Ghana, particularly in the Bono Region, and to explore the establishment of a biodiesel processing facility to support local value addition.
Category: Fuels
