Three of Japan’s leading marine engine manufacturers have agreed to work together to develop hydrogen-powered engines for ships.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Yanmar Power Technology and Japan Engine Corporation have signed a joint venture contract, establishing a new company called HyEng Corporation.

“With the establishment of HyEng Corporation, the three companies will further advance their joint development activities and accelerate their drive to develop new markets for decarbonisation in the marine domain,” the firms said in a joint statement.

2pc – Shipping’s contribution to GHG emissions

The partners will jointly carry out fundamental technology tests on hydrogen combustion, materials and sealing techniques, as well as classification requirements.

They will also develop different types of engines independently. Kawasaki Heavy Industries will develop medium-speed four-stroke engines, Yanmar Power Technology will focus on medium- and high-speed four-stroke engines, and Japan Engine Corporation will embark on the development of low speed two-stroke engines.

“In addition, a hydrogen fuel storage and supply system will be developed as part of the integrated hydrogen fuel system,” the firms said in a statement.

All three companies aim to bring their hydrogen-fuelled engines to market by 2025.

Shipping emissions

The shipping sector produces 2pc of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and manufacturers are looking at various options to reduce this. Options include biofuels, LNG, slow-steaming and wind assistance. Most marine engines currently run on fuel oil.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented a greenhouse gas reduction strategy which aims to reduce carbon intensity of international shipping by 40pc below 2008 levels by 2030.

Initial measures proposed by the IMO last year are principally around improving energy efficiency.

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Author: Tom Young