Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has entered into an agreement with wave energy developer Bombora to identify wave energy potential across Japan.

The agreement follows the completion of a detailed internal technology review of Bombora’s mWave wave energy converter by MOL,

The two companies are now progressing to the second phase of their collaboration, to identify potential sites for both mWave energy projects and combined wind and mWave energy projects in Japan and the neighbouring regions, Bombora said.

MOL, which operates one of the world’s largest merchant fleets, is “anticipating significant demand” for vessels involved in the construction and ongoing operations across the marine energy sector.

MOL will bring its expertise in maritime consultation, offshore marine operations, and regional industry supply chain knowledge to the partnership.

Bombora Asia Pacific development manager Ryota Yamada said: “We are very pleased to be conducting this strategic site identification project with MOL.

“The study will seek out opportunities suitable for wave, as well as hybrid wave and wind projects.

“MOL has a clear ambition to expand its sustainable marine operations into the energy sector and are a significant collaboration partner for Bombora on this pathfinder wave energy initiative in Japan.

“We know that there is excellent wave resource to be found around this coastline. Having a partner with the expertise of MOL alongside us will help progress projects in this region.”

The partnership will explore potential development sites for Bombora’s mWave to reduce reliance on diesel fuel for island communities.

The collaboration will also investigate the broader utility power potential off Japan’s Pacific coastline, said Bombora.

Bombora is in the final assembly phase of its 1.5MW mWave Pembrokeshire demo in Wales with installation scheduled for mid-2021.