Under Japan’s Zero-Emission Accelerating Ship Finance programme, Uyeno will be supported by the Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) and ship classification society ClassNK.

Built by Fukuoka Shipbuilding, the Kikou Maru will be the first coastal vessel financed through the programme. Currently, it runs on electric propulsion but has been designed so that hydrogen fuel systems can be added.

In 2026, Uyeno plans to conduct the first demonstration voyages powered by hydrogen, which will be supported by the Nippon Foundation’s Zero Emission Ships project.

The vessel was awarded an “S rating” from ClassNK for the hydrogen-ready design and integration of battery systems.

The rating recognised Kikou Maru as a ship with “exceptionally high decarbonisation, environmental consideration, and advanced performance.”

Specifically, the reinforced hull and dedicated compartments are built to accommodate future hydrogen storage tanks and fuel systems.

It also features lithium-ion batteries to optimise fuel consumption and cut emissions during low-speed and port operations.

However, industry voices note that while hydrogen and ammonia hold long-term potential, green methanol and onshore power supply offer more practical near-term solutions, leveraging existing infrastructure.

For example, hydrogen-based methanol can be used in modified engines and handled through existing fuel systems, allowing operators to begin cutting emissions sooner.

Nevertheless, as hydrogen and ammonia technologies mature, they’re expected to play a significant role.