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Sustainable Energy Innovations at Osaka Expo

On September 15, 2025, Osaka played host to both the Sustainable Fuel Ministerial Meeting and the 7th Hydrogen Ministerial Meeting. During this event, dignitaries from various countries visited the Osaka-Kansai Expo to witness exhibits focused on innovative approaches to sustainable energy. Among the attractions was the impressive showcase by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), which highlighted the company's status as a bronze partner and featured their "Future Urban Pavilion" dedicated to forward-thinking urban solutions.



The centerpiece of MOL's exhibit is a large model of the "Wind Hunter," a groundbreaking zero-emission vessel designed to harness wind energy for hydrogen production and transportation. The visiting members of both ministerial meetings took a keen interest in this innovative project. MOL's Executive Fellow, Yamaguchi, guided the tour and provided in-depth explanations of the decarbonization efforts and the development status of the Wind Hunter project.

Executive Fellow Yamaguchi expressed appreciation for the visitors' enthusiastic engagement: "They listened with great interest and encouraged us with warm words. The Wind Hunter's capacity to produce green hydrogen using offshore winds positions it as a key player in achieving a decarbonized society. Through the expo, we've received many expressions of support, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring the project's success. While challenges remain before commercializing it, we embrace each hurdle with encouragement and determination."

Currently, MOL is progressing with the construction of the Wind Hunter's prototype vessel and exploring potential hydrogen supply pathways. The aim is to develop a hydrogen value chain domestically, with plans to possibly construct a commercial prototype by the 2030s. This technology is crucial in the establishment of a green hydrogen supply chain, ultimately contributing to a sustainable future.

Details of Osaka-Kansai Expo Participation

• - Event Duration: April 13, 2025 – October 13, 2025
• - Exhibition Area: “Future Life Expo - Future Urban” Pavilion, Transportation and Mobility Zone

The Future Urban Pavilion serves as a significant platform within the expo, featuring a collaborative effort among the Expo Association and twelve sponsoring organizations in a joint display. One of the highlights includes an immersive experience with 15 attractions that showcase potential future life scenarios.

Understanding the Ministerial Meetings

The Sustainable Fuel Ministerial Meeting was established to advance carbon neutrality initiatives collaboratively with global partners. This convening, jointly hosted by Japan and Brazil, addresses sustainable fuels' potential in various sectors, paving the way for discussions leading up to COP30 in November 2025. On the other hand, the Hydrogen Ministerial Meeting focuses on stimulating global hydrogen utilization and fostering collaboration in hydrogen policies among participating nations, with participant engagement peaking this year as Japan accelerates its hydrogen society initiatives.

For more information on our exhibit and the Future Life Expo, visitors can check our dedicated website: WIND VISION - Osaka Expo.

The Wind Hunter is a culmination of innovative technologies, combining rigid-wing sail propulsion with capabilities to produce, store, and transport hydrogen. This project aims to achieve complete zero emissions and is a testament to MOL's commitment to creating a sustainable future using wind and hydrogen technologies.