The Sarawak government, in collaboration with Japan’s ENEOS Corporation, is advancing its ambitions to establish a competitive supply chain for clean hydrogen production, specifically in the form of methylcyclohexane (MCH). This initiative marks a significant step in Sarawak’s green hydrogen economy strategy, aiming to reduce production costs and strengthen its position in the global hydrogen market.
MCH, a saturated hydrocarbon, serves as a versatile carrier for hydrogen, allowing for safer and more efficient transport and storage. It also has industrial applications as a solvent and in organic chemical manufacturing.
At the heart of this partnership lies the H2ornbill Train project, a hydrogen manufacturing facility located in the Petchem Industrial Park in Bintulu. The project is a joint venture between state-owned SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd, ENEOS, and Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation. It is one of two flagship hydrogen initiatives spearheaded by Sarawak’s government, the second being the H2biscus Project, a collaboration with South Korean giants Samsung Engineering, Posco, and Lotte Chemicals.
The H2biscus Project is projected to deliver substantial output, including 7,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually for local consumption, 600,000 tonnes of blue ammonia, 630,000 tonnes of green ammonia, and 460,000 tonnes of green methanol for export markets.
Both facilities are expected to commence operations by 2027, with the H2ornbill Train project set to convert hydrogen into liquid MCH for direct export to Japan. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasized that this technological advancement will streamline production processes, reduce costs, and potentially open up export opportunities beyond Japan.
“Originally, we planned to produce hydrogen in Sarawak for processing in Japan. But now, with MCH technology, we can process it directly in Sarawak. This innovation could significantly lower production costs, benefiting Sarawak as a hydrogen producer and unlocking new markets,” Abang Johari said during a recent visit to ENEOS’ central technical research laboratory in Yokohama.
By 2028 or 2029, Sarawak aims to achieve an annual hydrogen production target of 240,000 tonnes.
Advancing Hydrogen Infrastructure and Technology
In June 2024, Sarawak marked another milestone with the launch of Malaysia’s first electrolyser assembly and distribution facility at Demak Laut Industrial Park. With an initial capacity to produce 25 tonnes of hydrogen daily, the facility is expected to further drive down hydrogen production costs.
ENEOS, which supplies approximately 20% of Japan’s primary energy needs, has positioned hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and biofuels as key drivers in its vision for a carbon-neutral society.
During their five-day visit to Japan, the Sarawak delegation, led by Abang Johari, also toured Mitsubishi Power’s Takasago Hydrogen Park, a hub for hydrogen production, storage, and advanced combustion technology research. Discussions with Mitsubishi executives explored collaborative opportunities to strengthen Sarawak’s hydrogen ecosystem.
Takuya Murase, senior general manager of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ GTCC energy systems division, reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting Sarawak’s hydrogen goals. Mitsubishi Power recently supplied a 500-megawatt hydrogen-ready gas turbine for the Miri Combined Cycle Gas Turbine power plant, capable of burning fuel with up to 30% hydrogen content.
Hydrogen-Powered Transport and Beyond
SEDC Energy is also developing a hydrogen production plant and refuelling station in Kota Samarahan, a critical component of the multi-billion ringgit Kuching Urban Transport System (KUTS). Expected to launch in phases starting from the fourth quarter of 2025, KUTS will feature hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles designed to reduce carbon emissions in Sarawak’s urban transport network.
Expanding Collaborative Horizons
The Sarawak Premier’s visit extended beyond hydrogen technologies. At Tokyo Gas Yokohama Techno Station, the delegation explored hydrogen and synthetic e-methanol fuel production technologies. While Sarawak lacks synthetic gas resources, its abundance of natural gas (methane) can be combined with carbon dioxide for the production of gas-based derivatives.
Discussions also took place with INPEX Corporation, one of Japan’s leading energy players, focusing on oil and gas exploration, renewable energy, and carbon capture technologies. INPEX’s commitment to sustainability aligns with Sarawak’s renewable energy ambitions.
Furthermore, Abang Johari held talks with Boeing Japan President Eric G. John on potential collaboration in the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), an emerging alternative in decarbonizing the aviation sector. Research in this area is currently underway with Singapore’s Chitose Group.
Towards a Green Energy Future
Sarawak’s strategic partnerships with leading Japanese and South Korean energy players underscore its commitment to building a robust hydrogen economy. Through technological innovation, infrastructure development, and international collaboration, Sarawak aims to position itself as a global leader in clean hydrogen production while contributing significantly to global carbon reduction goals.
Comments