Sanlorenzo has announced plans to launch the first bi-fuel green methanol superyacht by 2027.
The shipyard’s LIFE MYSTIC project – Methanol for Yachting Sustainable energy Transition applied to Internal Combustion engines – will be carried out in collaboration with Nanni Industries and Ranieri Tonissi.
The aim of the LIFE MYSTIC project is to test engines and generators for superyachts powered by a combination of diesel and methanol.
The project is anticipated to cost more than 4.8 million euros, of which 60% will be covered by European funds obtained under the Circular Economy and Quality of Life financing line of the LIFE program.
The project will use two MAN four-stroke high-speed diesel engines – in collaboration with Ranieri Tonissi as development partners – and two four-stroke diesel generators – made by Nanni Industries – adapted to operate using bi-fuel green methanol – diesel.
Challenges
Adaptations to the vessel will be carried out by Sanlorenzo, which will modify two traditional diesel fuel tanks into additional tanks for methanol and integrate the distribution system with the required lines and instruments.
The project is anticipated to involve several challenges including the design of the methanol fuel tanks and the management of the fuel itself which will require special attention and must comply with stringent safety standards.
In addition, the conversion of the engines for bi-fuel which is being carried out for the first time on this size of diesel engine.
Sanlorenzo also anticipates the accessibility of green methanol will be an issue along with regulatory factors, supply chain and distribution constraints.
LIFE MYSTIC is part of Sanlorenzo’s Road to 2030 plan.
The shipyard recently launched the 50Steel, the first superyacht in the world to use the green methanol Reformer Fuel Cell system to generate electricity and aims to launch the first carbon neutral vessel by 2030.
The project was presented by Sanlorenzo at an event attended by representatives of institutions, the nautical sector, port authorities and Assomarinas, the Italian association of tourist ports.
