On November 14, 2024, Orix announced it would begin a trial voyage using biofuel on a vessel it owns, which is currently chartered out on a regular contract to Norden A/S, a major tramp shipping company based in Denmark, led by CEO Jan Rindbo. This trial voyage with biofuel is expected to reduce CO₂ (carbon dioxide) emissions by approximately 15–20%. This is the first time that Orix is using biofuel on one of its vessels.
Biofuel is produced from materials of plant origin, such as waste cooking oil. Since plants absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere during growth, biofuel can significantly reduce GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions compared to fossil fuels. Marine biofuel can be used without extensive modifications to the existing engines and machinery of vessels, making it a promising option for reducing CO₂ emissions from existing ships.
In this trial, a mixed fuel consisting of traditional marine fuel oil and biofuel derived from waste cooking oil will be used. The trial aims to verify safe navigation and assess the reduction in CO₂ emissions.
As part of its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, Orix is promoting the reduction of GHG emissions in its shipping business. This includes conducting verification tests for energy-saving operations using soft sails and ordering methanol-fueled ships.
■Aggressive Promotion of Shipping Business
In February 2024, Orix announced it would acquire all outstanding shares of Santoku Shipping (headquartered in Osaka, led by President Junichi Taga). Through this acquisition, Orix has taken over all of Santoku Shipping’s operations, including vessel ownership and ship management business. While the acquisition price is undisclosed, Orix’s investment is estimated at around 300 billion yen on an enterprise value basis, including debt. Santoku Shipping currently owns 67 vessels, including those on new orders, with bulk carriers making up approximately 80% of the fleet, in addition to car carriers, reefer vessels, and two domestic car carriers. Orix Maritime, Orix’s shipping subsidiary, also owns bulk carriers.
Orix plans to continue aggressively promoting its shipping business, including environmental measures.
〆オリックス、自社保有船にバイオ燃料で試験航海を実施。デンマーク海運ノルデン（NORDEN）へのチャーターアウト（定期用船貸し出し）船を対象に。
オリックスは2024年11月14日、同社が保有しデンマークの不定期船大手ノルデン（NORDEN A/S、本社：デンマーク、CEO：Jan Rindbo）に定期用船貸し出ししている船舶で、バイオ燃料を使用した試験航行を開始すると発表した。今回のバイオ燃料の航海では約15―20％のＣＯ２（二酸化炭素）排出削減効果を見込む。オリックスが自社船でバイオ燃料を使用するのは初めて。
Photo courtesy= Orix
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