MOL-led consortium sets up Japan-New Zealand hydrogen corridor initiative
A consortium of Japanese companies, led by shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), has launched the Japan–New Zealand Hydrogen Corridor initiative to explore the development of a cross-border green hydrogen supply chain.
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The group plans to assess the commercial viability of producing green hydrogen in New Zealand and exporting it to Japan, with feasibility studies scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2026.
Green hydrogen refers to hydrogen produced by splitting water using renewable energy, resulting in no carbon emissions.
The consortium views hydrogen as a key clean energy source across multiple sectors, including the mobility sector, which covers shipping. It believes Japan will struggle to meet future large-scale demand for green hydrogen through domestic production alone. In contrast, New Zealand possesses abundant renewable energy resources, such as geothermal and hydropower, which are well suited for green hydrogen production.
Through the hydrogen corridor initiative, the partners aim to establish a supply chain originating in New Zealand that will enable green hydrogen exports to Japan, with trade expected to begin in the early 2030s.
In addition to MOL, the consortium includes construction company Obayashi Corporation, engineering firms Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Chiyoda Corporation.
By Tuhin Roy
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