Saudi Aramco has shipped a first batch of independently-certified low-carbon ammonia to Japan for use as fuel in power generation. It represents another milestone in the development of this lower-carbon energy solution.
The shipment is the result of a successful multiparty collaboration across the low-carbon ammonia value chain.
Saudi Aramco-Japan fuel deal
The ammonia was produced by SABIC Agri-Nutrients with feedstock from Aramco, and sold by Aramco Trading Company to the Fuji Oil Company.
Mitsui OSK shipped the liquid to Japan, then the low-carbon ammonia was transported to the Sodegaura Refinery for use in co-fired power generation.
The ammonia is categorised as low-carbon because CO2 from the associated manufacturing process was captured and utilised in downstream applications.
Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has announced plans to increasingly harness ammonia as a fuel for power generation and for ship propulsion, as part of the country’s 2050 decarbonisation goals.
The low-carbon ammonia that reached Japan is part of broader efforts by the Saudi energy giant and SABIC to establish a global supply network for this lower-carbon fuel.
Aramco and SABIC aim to supply low-carbon ammonia to other players to meet their early demand needs.
Olivier Thorel, Aramco Senior Vice President of Chemicals, said: “This is another milestone that highlights the possibilities for low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia made from Aramco feedstock, with the potential to play a role in a lower-carbon future.
“Not only is low-carbon ammonia a means to transport lower-carbon hydrogen, it is an important energy source in its own right that can help decarbonise key sectors – including power generation for both utilities and industries.
“By dispatching this accredited low-carbon ammonia to Japan, we are helping chart a course for the development of this vital commodity.”
The shipment to Japan brings lower-carbon energy solutions a step closer to the mainstream.
