Idemitsu Kosan Co.,Ltd. announced this week that it has signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with HIF Global, a producer of e-fuels, to accelerate the production, practical application, and diffusion of e-fuels in Japan.
As Idemitsu explains, e-fuels are liquid fuels produced by synthesizing hydrogen from renewable energy sources and atmospheric CO2. The fuels are attracting attention as an energy source that achieves carbon neutrality (virtually zero CO2 emissions) throughout the entire product life cycle, from raw material production to product use.
According to the company, so far, Idemitsu has had talks with HIF for early social implementation of e-fuels, and has done activities such as visiting the Haru Oni verification test facility located in the south region of Chile, Magallanes.
In order to further accelerate the discussion through the signing of the MoU, Idemitsu will jointly consider the following items with HIF.
- Procurement and domestic supply of e-fuels from overseas projects
- Joint investment in e-fuels production facilities in Japan and overseas
- International transportation and utilization of CO2 collected in Japan (conversion into raw materials)
At the same time, they will obtain samples of e-gasoline produced by HIF to confirm factors such as its environmental impact and performance for the practical application and diffusion in Japan.
As stated by the company, Idemitsu will also move ahead with considerations into the production of e-fuels at the Group’s refineries and complexes, aiming to establish a system for the production and supply of e-fuels in Japan by the late 2020’s.
For further reading:
BV: E-fuels and sustainably sourced biofuels promising options to decarbonize shipping