Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced today its membership in the Electric Natural Gas Coalition (e-NG Coalition) , a global initiative dedicated to the development and widespread adoption of e-methane as a sustainable fuel source. This move, effective from March 1, 2025, marks an important step for MOL in its ongoing efforts to accelerate decarbonization within the shipping industry. The e-NG Coalition now boasts 20 participating companies committed to driving the global application of e-methane, a synthetic methane produced from CO2 and hydrogen, which can be used in existing LNG-fueled vessels.
What is e-NG?
e-NG, also known as electric natural gas or e-methane, is a synthetic methane produced from CO2 and renewable hydrogen. It is a carbon-neutral fuel that can be used in existing LNG infrastructure, making it an attractive option for decarbonizing sectors such as maritime transport. The process of creating e-NG involves combining hydrogen and CO2 through methanation, using a catalyst to convert the two feedstocks into methane. Since e-NG is chemically identical to conventional natural gas, it can be seamlessly integrated into the global energy market, offering a viable solution for sustainable energy transition.
MOL’s Contribution to the e-NG Coalition’s Goals
By joining the e-NG Coalition, MOL will contribute to the broader adoption of e-methane, supporting the creation of a comprehensive value chain for this carbon-neutral fuel. The company plans to leverage its vast expertise in LNG transport, accumulated over four decades, as well as its experience in the ocean transport of liquefied CO2. This experience positions MOL well to help establish the supply chains required for e-methane, thus contributing to the sustainability of the shipping industry and supporting the development of synthetic fuel systems.
e-methane is attracting attention as a promising alternative fuel for the future of shipping. It can be used in LNG-fueled vessels, offering a solution that minimizes the environmental impact of maritime operations. The fuel is chemically identical to conventional natural gas, providing an easy pathway for integration into the global energy infrastructure.
Supporting the Energy Transition and Decarbonization
MOL’s involvement in the e-NG Coalition will help to promote policy advocacy, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and conduct technical research to support the development and use of e-methane. The Coalition’s initiatives aim to establish environmental assessment systems, encourage the use of e-methane, and ensure its tradability on a global scale. MOL’s participation aligns with its broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in its BLUE ACTION 2035 management plan.
Through this collaboration, MOL seeks to play a pivotal role in driving decarbonization in the shipping industry, helping to reduce carbon emissions from maritime operations and supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.
About the Electric Natural Gas Coalition (e-NG Coalition)
The Electric Natural Gas Coalition (e-NG Coalition) is a global platform established to accelerate the use of e-methane (or e-NG) as a clean energy source. The Coalition, founded in October 2024 in Brussels, Belgium, aims to promote the tradability and use of e-methane, raise awareness about its potential, and foster the necessary policy support to facilitate its adoption. By collaborating across industries and geographies, the Coalition works to ensure the widespread use of e-NG as part of the global effort to achieve carbon neutrality.
About Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL)
MOL is a global leader in shipping, operating over 800 ships worldwide. Its diverse fleet includes bulk carriers, liquefied natural gas carriers, Ro-Ro car carrier ships, and oil tankers, among others. Beyond traditional shipping, MOL also engages in social infrastructure businesses, including real estate, terminal and logistics, and offshore wind power. With one of the largest merchant fleets and 140 years of history, MOL aims to be a resilient corporate group that provides new value to all stakeholders.
Source Mitsui O.S.K. Lines