First Shipment of Low-Carbon Ammonia Arrives in Japan for Power Generation

In a groundbreaking move toward greener power generation, Japan has received its first shipment of independently-certified low-carbon ammonia.

The shipment is a product of successful cooperation between multiple parties across the low-carbon ammonia value chain.

The ammonia was produced by SABIC Agri-Nutrients using feedstock from Aramco. Aramco Trading Company then sold it to the Fuji Oil Company, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) was responsible for delivering the shipment to Japan. There, the low-carbon ammonia was subsequently transported to the Sodegaura Refinery for use in co-fired power generation.

Japan Oil Engineering Co. provided technical support for the process.

A joint press announcement said shipment marks another significant step in the development of sustainable energy solutions, as ammonia can play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions.

The ammonia is classified as low-carbon because CO2 emissions from its manufacturing process were captured and utilized downstream. The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has announced its intentions to harness ammonia as a fuel source for both power generation and an alternative fuel for shipping, aligning with the country’s 2050 decarbonization goals.

Aramco Senior Vice President of Chemicals, Olivier Thorel, said the shipment “highlights the possibilities for low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia made from Aramco feedstock, with the potential to play a role in a lower-carbon future.” Thorel emphasized the importance of low-carbon ammonia as both a means to transport hydrogen and a valuable energy source capable of decarbonizing key sectors, including power generation for utilities and industries.

Toshiaki Tanaka, MOL Representative Director, Executive Vice President Executive Officer, expressed excitement over ammonia’s potential as a next-generation clean energy source.

“Japan aims to achieve a carbon-neutral society by 2050, and we are very pleased to transport independently-certified low-carbon ammonia from Saudi Arabia to Japan. We are aiming for a track record of safe, reliable services across multiple transportation modes, in accordance with our customers’ needs. By combining accumulated knowledge and proactively participating in a broad range of value chains, we hope to contribute to the decarbonization of society,” Tanaka said.

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