Maersk-backed methanol fuel cell project moves forward

Denmark-based fuel cell manufacturer Blue World Technologies has successfully tested its methanol-based fuel cell system for maritime applications.

PHOTO: 200 kW methanol fuel cell system undergoing trials at Blue World Technologies' facility in Aalborg, Denmark. Blue World Technologies

The 200 kilowatts (kW) high temperature proton exchange membrane (HT PEM) fuel cell can achieve an electrical energy efficiency of 55% in commercial stage application, Blue World Technologies said.

“Additionally, the fuel cell system allows for up to 100% carbon capture for both utilisation in green fuel production and for storage,” it added.

Going forward, one of A.P. Moller-Maersk's methanol-capable vessels will be equipped with a pilot 1kW fuel cell stack in 2026 to test the system onboard a ship, Blue World Technologies said. The fuel cell will provide auxiliary power to the vessel.

The company plans to commercialise the fuel cell-based auxiliary power unit system that runs on methanol to replace diesel power generators onboard ships from 2027. In the future, it intends to expand its production capacity and develop methanol fuel cell systems for the main propulsion on ships.

“The maritime industry needs multiple new technologies and pathways to reach its net-zero targets, and high-temperature PEM fuel cell technology is very promising in finding a balance between the high electrical efficiency, size, and load adjustment,” Alex Smout, investment director at Maersk Growth said.

Maersk Growth, the financing arm of Maersk, is one of the investors in Blue World Technologies.

By Konica Bhatt

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