MOL (Mitsui O.S.K. Lines) has recently received an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of low-pressure liquid CO2 carriers. These carriers, with a capacity of 42,000 cubic meters, have been developed to support carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects in Japan. According to forecasts, the demand for LCO2 carriers is expected to significantly increase due to the initiation of CCS projects in Japan.
Design Details and Risk Assessment
This approval in principle is the result of collaboration among six companies that have addressed a standard design framework for LCO2 carriers and alternative fuel vessels through a memorandum of understanding dated December 1, 2025. The objectives of this collaboration include the sustainable construction and supply of LCO2 carriers and their standardization, as well as the establishment of a CCS value chain. A Hazard Identification Study (HAZID) for the transportation operations of LCO2 on carriers with a capacity of 42,000 cubic meters has been conducted.
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MOL's Strategic Role in Carbon Projects
MOL, leveraging its extensive experience in low-pressure gas carrier operations, conducted a risk assessment considering the specific hazards of this type of carrier. Based on the results of this assessment, a design policy emphasizing safety was developed, leading to the acquisition of the approval in principle. This policy will be applied in the standard design of LCO2 carriers and will serve as an important foundation for supporting the development of CCS business in Japan.
The MOL Group has positioned its environmental strategy as one of the core pillars of its management program under the title "BLUE ACTION 2035." In line with this vision, the group has set its goal to expand carbon-neutral and low-carbon businesses, and this action is part of that commitment. In MOL's CCS project, the company has entered into long-term lease agreements for two LCO2 carriers planned for the Northern Lights project, the world's first full-scale CCS project.
These two vessels are expected to commence CO2 transportation services for CCS operations around 2028. Looking ahead, MOL will actively participate in the development of the CO2 value chain and contribute to the realization of a low-carbon society.
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