Russia’s largest independent natural gas producer Novatek and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan have signed a memorandum of cooperation on ammonia, hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation and storage during the Eastern Economic Forum in Moskau, Kallanish notes.

The parties intend to mutually support projects in producing and marketing of ammonia and hydrogen, as well as implementing technologies for carbon capture and storage in Russia and Japan.

In particular, the memorandum provides for the exchange of information and research in these areas, as well as implementing pilot projects and providing state support for developing policies in the field of decarbonisation, standards and requirements for low-carbon products, Novatek says.

“One of the most important elements of our strategy is to reduce our carbon footprint, which allows us to increase the competitiveness and market attractiveness of the Company's products in the context of the energy transition,” said the company’s chairman of the management board Leonid Mikhelson. “The memorandum expands inter-governmental support for our climate projects that is of great importance for the successful implementation of NOVATEK’s strategic plans to further increase LNG production while correspondingly reducing our carbon footprint. It also contributes to strengthening the economic ties between Russia and Japan.”

In February, Novatek and German energy company Uniper signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to research and assess the possibilities of developing a hydrogen value chain.

According to the MOU, the parties will develop an integrated hydrogen production, transportation and supply chain, including hydrogen supplies to Uniper’s power stations in Russia and Western Europe.

Novatek is reportedly planning to build a hydrogen plant at its Yamal LNG complex in the Arctic, with a view to export to Europe and Asia.

In August, Russia published its new concept for the development of hydrogen energy. According to the document, the potential volumes of hydrogen exports from Russia to the world market in 2050 may range from 15-50 million tonnes/year and it could bring Russia about $150 billion annually.