Wedoany.com Report-May 26, Eneos, a leading energy company in Japan, has partnered with Honeywell to initiate basic engineering for the first commercial-scale hydrogen supply chain using Honeywell UOP’s methylcyclohexane (MCH) dehydrogenation process. The project encompasses production, storage, transportation, distribution, and material recovery to recycle components, creating an efficient and sustainable hydrogen ecosystem.

Eneos selects Honeywell’s MCH technology to develop the first commercial-scale hydrogen supply chain, advancing efficient and recyclable hydrogen transport.

Eneos plans to integrate the MCH unit into its refineries across Japan, leveraging Honeywell’s Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) solution. This technology enables safe and effective long-distance hydrogen transport by converting hydrogen gas into MCH through the Toluene Hydrogenation process. The MCH is then shipped or transported by tanker to its destination, where hydrogen is extracted via the MCH dehydrogenation process, and the byproduct, toluene, is recycled for future use.

Rajesh Gattupalli, president of Honeywell UOP, stated: “With global energy demand on the rise, regions are seeking to incorporate additional energy sources, including cost-effective hydrogen imports. Our MCH dehydrogenation process will assist Eneos in enhancing the commercial viability of hydrogen to meet the increasing energy requirements.” The process supports regions with abundant renewable energy or established hydrogen infrastructure to become key suppliers.

The collaboration builds on a 2024 announcement by Honeywell to develop the world’s first commercial-scale LOHC project at multiple Eneos sites in Japan. This initiative positions Eneos to meet growing energy demands sustainably by establishing a robust hydrogen supply chain. The MCH process ensures efficient hydrogen transport, addressing logistical challenges and supporting the adoption of clean energy solutions.

By integrating advanced technology into its refineries, Eneos strengthens Japan’s role in the global hydrogen market, fostering innovation in energy production and distribution. The project’s recycling component enhances sustainability, minimizing waste and optimizing resource use. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing hydrogen as a viable energy source, contributing to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

The Eneos-Honeywell collaboration is a significant step toward commercializing hydrogen supply chains, offering a scalable model for other regions. With its focus on efficiency and environmental responsibility, the project supports Japan’s energy transition and sets a precedent for global hydrogen infrastructure development.