Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced that it held a ceremony on October 24 for the maiden port of call in Newcastle, Australia of the SHOFU MARU, the world’s first coal carrier equipped with the Wind Challenger (a hard sail wind power propulsion system), which was delivered on October 7.

SHOFU MARU entering Newcastle
SHOFU MARU entering Newcastle

The Australian government has set a decarbonization policy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, and local port officials in Newcastle have high expectations and interest in the SHOFU MARU, which contributes to decarbonization while transporting energy resources that support people's lives. The ship received a warm welcome to the port from concerned parties representing both Australia and Japan to take on its first cargo.

SHOFU MARU received a warm welcome
SHOFU MARU received a warm welcome from concerned parties

MOL works closely with the Australian energy industry and port authorities to achieve both stable fuel transport and a reduction in environmental impact.