Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has become the latest member of the e-NG Coalition, an international alliance dedicated to promoting electric natural gas (e-NG), also known as e-methane, in the global energy transition. MOL's membership, effective from March 1, 2025, brings the coalition's total participating companies to 20.
E-methane, or synthetic methane, is produced by combining carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen. It is seen as a viable carbon-neutral fuel that can be used within the existing LNG infrastructure. The e-NG Coalition, founded in October 2024, aims to build an international market for e-methane, set emissions accounting standards, and facilitate collaborations across the energy sector.
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By joining the e-NG Coalition, MOL aims to establish a stable international supply chain for next-generation fuels and accelerate initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of the shipping industry. The company plans to utilize carbon-neutral e-methane as marine fuel and contribute to the broader adoption of e-methane by developing a synthetic fuel supply chain. This initiative leverages MOL's expertise in LNG transport and ocean transport of liquefied CO2. In line with its commitment to sustainable shipping, MOL has also invested in U.S.-based e-fuel developer Infinium. This investment aims to accelerate the development and adoption of e-fuels, further supporting MOL's environmental goals.
Prior to MOL's inclusion, the e-NG Coalition expanded in January 2025 by welcoming nine new members, including industry leaders such as IHI Corporation, INPEX Corporation, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line), Korea Gas Corporation (Kogas), SAMSUNG E&A, Shell, Standard Carbon, StormFisher Hydrogen, and Terraform Industries. These additions encompass the full value chain of renewable gases, from infrastructure to technology, production, storage, and distribution.
The interest in e-methane extends beyond Japan. For instance, Nordic Ren-Gas has selected MAN Energy Solutions as a technology provider for its e-methane project in Tampere, Finland. The plant is expected to produce approximately 200 GWh of renewable fuel for heavy road and maritime transport annually, along with 180 GWh of carbon dioxide-free district heating for Tampere's district heating system.
The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) has highlighted the potential of e-fuels, including e-methane, in shipping decarbonization. E-fuels are considered a viable option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector, aligning with global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.
MOL's membership in the e-NG Coalition underscores the shipping industry's commitment to sustainable practices and the development of alternative fuels. As the coalition continues to grow, the collaborative efforts of its members are expected to drive the global adoption of e-methane, contributing significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport.
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