Consortium to develop electric vessels
Seven companies have partnered to establish new ocean shipping infrastructure services through various initiatives to develop, realise, and commercialise zero-emission electric vessels.
The ‘e5 Consortium’, which is based on the core values of electrification, environment, evolution, efficiency and economics, will promote the sustainable growth of coastal shipping in Japan. It plans to launch the world’s first zero-emission electric tanker, powered by large-capacity lithium ion batteries, in March 2022.
Coastal shipping in Japan faces issues including a shortage of mariners due to the aging of the seagoing workforce, the ageing of vessels and pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).
The e5 Consortium members are focusing their attention on fulfilling the potential of electric vessels to solve these urgent issues with the zero-emission tanker being the first part of this project.
The consortium anticipates that its plan will benefit from the combined technological know-how, networks and other advantages of the companies.
The companies that form the e5 Consortium are Asahi Tanker Co., Ltd.; Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.; Exeno Yamamizu Corporation; Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.; Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd.; Tokyo Electric Power Company; and Mitsubishi Corporation.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
