First Successful Result for a Standard Design Framework Utilizing MILES

AiP acquired after completing risk assessment of CO₂ handling operations specific to low-pressure liquefied CO₂ carriers and establishing a safety-focused design policy

* Utilizes the MILES-based standard design framework to ensure stable construction and supply of liquefied CO₂ carriers in Japan while improving economic efficiency

 Six companies, including Mitsui O.S.K. Lines,, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, , Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha , Nihon Shipyard (NSY, a ship design and sales joint venture between Imabari Shipbuilding  and Japan Marine United Corporation), Mitsubishi Shipbuilding , a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries  Group, and MILES  (a joint venture among related companies for the design of liquefied CO₂  carriers and low-carbon fueled ships) have obtained Approval in Principle  for a low-pressure LCO₂ carrier from the Japanese classification society Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) following completion of a risk assessment for LCO₂ handling operations. A ceremony to present the AiP was held on September 15 at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Demand for LCO₂ carriers is expected to grow as a series of CCS (Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage) projects commence in Japan, requiring a means of transporting CO₂ captured in Japan to storage sites. Based on a Memorandum of Understanding announced on December 1, 2025, the six companies have been advancing a standard design framework that utilizes MILES for LCO₂ carriers and alternative-fuel ships. Their goals include the stable domestic construction and supply of LCO₂ carriers, the standardization of LCO₂ carriers, and the establishment of a CCS value chain. This AiP marks the first concrete achievement through the MILES framework.

The six companies conducted a risk assessment (Hazard Identification Study “HAZID”) for LCO₂ handling operations on a low-pressure 42,000m³ class LCO₂ carrier, which is being standardized. The risk assessment drew on the extensive experience of “K” LINE, MOL, and NYK Line in low-pressure gas carrier operations to consider the risks unique to low-pressure LCO₂. A design policy stressing safety was established based on the findings, leading to the acquisition of the AiP. This policy will be reflected in the standard design of LCO₂ carriers and will serve as an important foundation for supporting CCS business development in Japan. A common design platform for a standard vessel is expected to provide workload savings and greater efficiency in design and construction going forward, strengthening construction capabilities.

The MOL Group has positioned environmental strategy as one of the core pillars of its management plan, “BLUE ACTION 2035.” Under “MOL Group Environmental Vision – BLUE ACTION 2035 Phase 2,” the MOL Group has set a target of expanding low-carbon and decarbonization businesses, and this initiative forms part of this commitment.

In MOL’s CCS business, we have already entered into long-term charter contracts for two LCO₂ carriers that MOL plans to own for Northern Lights Project, the world’s first full-scale CCS project. These two vessels are scheduled to commence CO₂ transportation services for CCS operations around 2028.

Looking ahead, MOL will continue to actively participate in the development of the CO₂ value chain and contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society by meeting the rapidly growing demand for maritime CO₂ transportation.