NextChem and Siemens Energy Develop Methanol Fuel Cell System for Maritime Sector

NextChem, a subsidiary of MAIRE, and Siemens Energy have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop and commercialize an innovative modular high-temperature methanol fuel cell system for the maritime sector. The initial focus is on the luxury yachting segment, with plans to extend the technology to other maritime industries and related markets. The first industrial-scale installation is slated for a net-zero emissions yacht currently under construction.

NextChem will oversee the design and supply of the methanol fuel cell module, which utilizes low-carbon methanol to generate hydrogen for onboard power, enabling zero-emission operations during anchoring and propulsion. Siemens Energy will handle the integration of the technology into shipboard systems, manage electrification, and optimize energy operations. This system serves as an eco-friendly alternative to marine diesel, significantly reducing nitrous and sulfur oxide emissions.

According to NextChem Managing Director Fabio Fritelli, the highly efficient and modular fuel cell solution covers the entire value chain of low-carbon methanol, offering cutting-edge production technologies and unlocking new uses for methanol to boost demand and foster a broader low-carbon methanol economy. Beyond yachting, the companies see potential applications in net-zero power generation for data centers, industrial processes, remote locations, and off-grid installations.

Siemens Energy’s Vice President for Oil and Gas and Chemical Solutions, Giuseppe Sachero, highlighted that this collaboration leverages the unique expertise of both companies, capitalizing on their strengths in adjacent industries. Fuel cells are seen as a key component of the clean fuels ecosystem, spanning electrolysis, electricity generation, and storage, with wide applicability across multiple sectors.