Blue World has successfully tested a 200 kW maritime fuel cell system which runs on green methanol,bringing new technology into play which could push forward the decarbonisation of the maritime industry.
Source: Blue World
Rendering of Blue World’s 1 MW pilot system including 5 x 200 kW fuel cell modules
With an electrical efficiency of up to 55% when reaching a commercial stage, the fuel cell system will typically provide a fuel saving of 20-30% which enables a cost-efficient use of green fuels. Additionally, the fuel cell system allows for up to 100% carbon capture for both utilisation in green fuel production and for storage.
“This is a major breakthrough within maritime decarbonisation and with the test of our 200-kW system, we are proving that the HT PEM fuel cell technology has the potential of being one of the key technologies to decarbonise the hard-to-abate sectors,” saidDennis Naldal Jensen, chief technology officer at Blue World Technologies.
”During the test period, we successfully validated our system setup with the methanol fuel processor, the series connection of the fuel cell stacks, as well as the balance of plant components surrounding the fuel cells.”
Pilot system
The first pilot system is a 1 MW system for onboard power production. The system will be installed on one of A.P. Moller – Maersk’s large dual fuel-enabled methanol vessels and the installation on board is expected during H1 2026.
Testing was completed at the newly established test facilities in connection to the Blue Aalborg Factory, where the fuel cells for the system are produced.
The order for the pilot system was followed by a venture investment by Maersk Growth, the venture arm of A.P. Moller-Maersk, which at the end of 2023 participated in an €11 million pre-C-round alongside The Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO), Cycle Group and other shareholders.
”As an investor in Blue World Technologies, we are pleased to follow the progress of the system development and we share the team’s excitement for the successful testing of the 200-kW fuel cell system,” saidAlex Smout, investment director at Maersk Growth.
”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. This is a great example of how we can support innovation through both investment and partnership.”
Blue World will initially supply systems for auxiliary power and expects that the maritime system will reach a commercial level in 2027.
