Tokyo-based shipping company NYK has announced plans to conduct full-scale trials of long-term use of biofuels in its existing heavy oil-fired vessels starting in fiscal 2024. The move comes as part of NYK’s efforts to achieve a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by fiscal 2030 compared to fiscal 2021.
The upcoming trials will mark a significant step forward from previous short-term trials, with NYK aiming to verify the safety and stable procurement of biofuels over a longer period. Biofuels are considered to have net-zero CO2 emissions, making them an attractive alternative to traditional heavy oil fuels.
During the trials, NYK will continuously use biofuels for three months on multiple vessel types. Following this initial phase, the company plans to gradually extend biofuel use to further validate its effectiveness. This will involve assessing the impact of biofuels on various ship components, including the main engine, generator, motor, and fuel supply system, as well as testing the quality of biofuels after storage.
Since fiscal 2019, NYK has conducted short-term biofuel trials on approximately 10 vessels, confirming their safety. However, the impact of biofuels on key ship components and the stability of their procurement on a larger scale have yet to be fully determined.
By conducting these trials, NYK hopes to establish a safe navigation system using biofuels, while also promoting the development of biofuels in order to achieve its ambitious emission reduction goals.
