Japanese companies join forces to decarbonise ethylene production

Core Viewpoint - Asahi Kasei, Mitsui Chemicals, and Mitsubishi Chemical are collaborating to decarbonise and optimise ethylene production in western Japan, supported by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's HtA Support Programme [1][5]. Group 1: Collaboration and Transition - The companies will establish a joint operating entity to manage ethylene production, leading to the closure of the AMEC facility at the Mizushima Plant by fiscal year 2030 [2]. - Operations will be consolidated at the Osaka Petrochemical Industries facility in Takaishi, Osaka [2]. - Equipment modifications will be made at OPC's Senboku Factory and other sites, with plans to dismantle AMEC's equipment and explore uses for the vacated site aligned with carbon neutrality [3]. Group 2: Investment and Technology - An investment of Y21.2 billion ($139 million) is allocated for the transition, including a subsidy application of up to Y10.4 billion [4]. - The investment will focus on transitioning ethylene production facilities and establishing an initial production facility using Asahi Kasei's Revolefin technology [4][6]. Group 3: Industry Impact - Ethylene production is crucial for the petrochemical industry, serving as a foundation for various products [5]. - The cooperative strategy aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by sharing technology and implementing carbon-neutral measures [5][7]. - The HtA Support Programme is expected to facilitate a transition towards competitive decarbonised basic chemicals, supporting market expansion and sustainable business models [7].