Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. said it has completed the conceptual design of a Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) initially powered by liquefied petroleum gas but adaptable to future use of ammonia as its main fuel.

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding used its extensive experience in the construction and delivery of very large LPG carriers and multi-purpose gas carriers to come up with the design.

Ammonia, which emits no CO2 when combusted, is expected to come into wide use in the future as a stable and clean source of energy and is seen as a fuel that could contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the marine industry.

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding’s newest VLGCs, in addition to using LPG fuel as an alternative to the conventionally prevalent heavy oil, can also transport ammonia as cargo and are regarded as adaptable to using ammonia fuel in the future.

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding’s “Marine future stream” strategy focuses on achieving “decarbonization of the maritime economy” through use of renewable energies and carbon recycling, and a “safe and secure future for society” through autonomous operation and electrification.