Japan Suiso Energy, Ltd. (JSE) and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. recently held the ground-breaking ceremony for the Kawasaki LH2 Terminal, a commercial-scale liquefied hydrogen hub in Ogishima, Kawasaki City. The terminal marks a major step forward in Japan’s move toward a large-scale hydrogen supply chain.
Central Facility for Japan’s Hydrogen Supply Chain Demonstration
The Kawasaki LH2 Terminal is a core facility under the “Liquefied Hydrogen Supply Chain Commercialization Demonstration” project, funded by the Green Innovation Fund through the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). As the world’s first commercial-scale liquefied hydrogen terminal, it will feature the world’s largest 50,000 m³ hydrogen storage tank. The terminal will also include advanced infrastructure for maritime cargo handling, hydrogen liquefaction, gas supply, and lorry-based distribution. JSE will oversee project management, while a joint venture led by Kawasaki will design and construct the entire facility.
Building a Global-Scale Hydrogen Logistics System
A next-generation liquefied hydrogen carrier—planned for future construction—will hold approximately 40,000 m³, making it one of the largest in the world. Together with the LH2 terminal, it will serve as a critical backbone for Japan’s future international hydrogen supply chain.
Roadmap to 2030 and Beyond
By FY2030, the project aims to begin full-scale operations of both the Kawasaki LH2 Terminal and the new liquefied hydrogen carrier. During this phase, stakeholders will evaluate key commercial criteria, including performance, safety, durability, reliability, economic feasibility, and long-term scalability.
As per the press release, from 2030 onward, Japan plans to import liquefied hydrogen using these carriers. The Kawasaki LH2 Terminal will receive and store the hydrogen. The terminal will then supply it to domestic hydrogen consumers, supporting national goals for a clean energy transition.
