Kansen voor west
Implementation of the Zero-Emission E-Generation Program Using Marine and Land-Based MBFC Technology
The transition to sustainable shipping requires directly deployable solutions, yet batteries and hydrogen are not yet commercially viable for commercial vessels. Within this project, Electric Ship Facilities (ESF) is developing a powerful, modular total solution based on Methanol Based Fuel Cells (MBFCs).
The project will deliver an innovative system that efficiently generates electricity on board, designed for shipyards to easily integrate into both new and existing inland, coastal, and fishing vessels.
implementation program
Context
According to regulations, the shipping industry must quickly become more sustainable. Currently, commercial vessels such as inland waterway vessels, coastal vessels, and fishing vessels are powered by fossil fuels. However, boat owners are being forced by regional laws and regulations to switch to sustainable propulsion systems.
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However, there are no commercially viable solutions for propulsion based on sustainable energy carriers. Commercially viable hydrogen-based solutions are still a long way off. Direct propulsion using onboard hydrogen storage is not a commercial solution. Fully electric propulsion is not feasible for larger ships due to limited battery capacity.
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Consequently, alternative methods for sustainable ship propulsion are being sought. One promising alternative is generating electricity using methanol-based fuel cells (MBFCs).
The project
Electric Ship Facilities (ESF) aims to develop a Methanol-Based Fuel Cell (MBFC) system that can be easily integrated by shipyards and technicians into both recreational and commercial vessels. By developing a modular system, the goal is to provide both new and existing vessels with a sustainable and efficient energy solution.
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ESF has experience using MBFC technology on ships. (See Greenshipping.) The relatively small MBFCs have limited power output (e.g., 5 kW) and can only be used to extend the range of smaller vessels. To fully power larger ships, capacities ranging from hundreds to several thousand kW are required. This calls for a fundamentally different solution. In this project, ESF aims to offer a total solution that generates electricity on board the ship.
Partners
The project is being carried out by Electric Ship Facilities in cooperation with FME and is being co-financied by the European Union.
