PowerCell secures DNV’s approval for new methanol-to-power solution

Swedish hydrogen fuel cell provider PowerCell has obtained approval in principle (AiP) from classification society DNV for a new methanol-to-power solution that combines a methanol reformer with a fuel cell system.

Specifically, the new solution has a fully integrated methanol reformer from RIX Industries combined with the newly launched PowerCell Marine System 225, a compact fuel cell system delivering 225 kW of clean electric power with zero emissions.

As described, RIX and PowerCell’s new solution reforms methanol into hydrogen used in a fuel cell, simplifying integration and enhancing safety.

Richard Berkling, CEO of PowerCell Group, said: “The Methanol-to-Power solution follows our “Industrialized Innovation” strategy. The strategy integrates our industrialised fuel cell components to generate higher value for our customers by minimising time-to-market, technical risk and technical investment for customers that are pioneering marine electrification and decarbonisation.

“We continue to drive value-creation for marine customers beyond having the best marine fuel cells. PowerCell works with industry leaders towards the maritime industry’s transition, with technology that simplifies bunkering, integration and commissioning.”

Bryan Reid, CSO of RIX Industries, added: “RIX is proud to partner with PowerCell in bringing this new and novel technology to market, empowering early adopters to lead the charge in decarbonising the marine industry. These power systems directly address our customers’ needs for increased energy density and simplified integration, enabling the immediate deployment of Net Zero solutions.”

In 2023, PowerCell and RIX Industries partnered with methanol-to-hydrogen technology firm e1 Marine, and conducted a string test of their respective technologies for a 200kW propulsion chain as part of the validation of Maritime Partners LLC’s M/V Hydrogen One inland push boat.

At the time, PowerCell revealed that the test results proved the viability of a concept that takes methanol fuel and converts it to hydrogen onboard ships before using the hydrogen in a fuel cell to generate power cleanly and efficiently.