Solution Scope: Ships emission reduction/ Decabonization

Target Contaminant: GHG

Solution Provider or Contact Point: https://www.helenus.eu/contact/

Project: HELENUS- Demonstrating SOFCs to decarbonize shipping

ITS Description: The HELENUS project develops and demonstrates a 500 kW solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) in an MSC World Europa class ocean cruise vessel. The SOFC will be fully integrated into the ship’s design, producing both electricity and high-grade heat in combined heat and power mode. The ITS aims to achieve a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 8 by 2029. The 500 kW HELENUS SOFC module installed onboard the MSC World Europa class cruise ship will serve as the building block to scale up the fuel cells to as high as 10-20 MW in the future leading to over 23% total fuel savings compared to state-of-the-art energy systems with only internal combustion engines (ICEs). SOFCs are inherently compatible with different fuels, including LNG/methane, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and more, without requiring energy-consuming reforming apparatus. The SOFC module has significant potential for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in addition to improving system efficiency. Methane slip, which is a significant contributor to GHG emissions, can be almost entirely eliminated by the SOFC module.

Correspondence with BMM OIR (sectoral priorities, R&I activities, gaps, needs): The ITS supports the transformative innovation by addressing alternatives for low carbon fuels for the Maritime transport, in line with the OIR priority on the decarbonisation of the sector.