MoU to develop breakthrough methanol high-temperature fuel cell

Nextchem and Siemens Energy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop and commercialise a breakthrough methanol high-temperature fuel cell, focused on the yachting industry.

The fuel cell will be based on a newly designed modularised solution with the initial target market the high-end yachting segment, followed by the wider maritime industry.

Nextchem will focus on the design and supply of the methanol fuel cell module, while Siemens Energy will provide on board system integration and energy management system experience.

The fuel cell will work by re-forming low-carbon methanol back into hydrogen for onboard power generation for zero-emission propulsion.

The first large scale installation of the system is already under development and will be installed on a flagship net-zero yacht currently under construction.

“With this highly efficient and modularised fuel cell solution Nextchem will cover the entire value chain of low-carbon methanol, with a unique proposition capable to deliver best-in-class production technologies,” said Fabio Fritelli, managing director of Nextchem.

And he added that the technology will also unlock additional methanol uses, accelerating demand growth and the establishment of a broader low-carbon methanol economy.

Giuseppe Sachero, vice president, oil and gas and chemical solutions, Siemens Energy, added: “This development highlights the unique value of key players in the energy transition value chain.

Clean fuels technologies ecosystem

“By working together, we capitalise on each other’s expertise and references in adjacent industries.

“Fuel cells are an integral part of the clean fuels technologies ecosystem, from electrolysis to electricity generation and storage, and are applicable in multiple industrial applications.”

Nextchem, part of the Maire Group, researches and develops sustainable technology solutions.

Siemens Energy develops products and services to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.