NEXTCHEM and Siemens Energy: Collaborating to Develop Modular High-Temperature Methanol Fuel Cell Solutions for the Maritime Sector

Recently, MAIRE's NEXTCHEM has signed a memorandum of understanding with Siemens Energy to jointly develop and commercialize a groundbreaking high-temperature methanol fuel cell, based on a newly designed modular solution. Initially focusing on the high-end yacht sector, the ultimate target markets include the entire maritime industry and other related fields.

The division of responsibilities is clear: NEXTCHEM concentrates on the design and supply of innovative, efficient methanol fuel cell modules; Siemens Energy leverages its expertise in marine system integration, full electrification, and energy management to provide comprehensive solutions for shipyards and shipowners.

This fuel cell can convert low-carbon methanol into hydrogen for marine power generation, enabling vessels to achieve net-zero emissions both at anchor and during propulsion, significantly reducing the consumption of marine fossil diesel and avoiding emissions of strictly regulated nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides.

Currently, the first "industrial-scale" installation of this innovative system is under planning, to be deployed on a flagship net-zero emission yacht under construction. Although yachts represent an early application market, the new-type methanol fuel cell modules designed by NEXTCHEM can also serve multiple scenarios and markets, including stationary net-zero emission power generation (such as data centers, industrial process backup, and base load power supply), as well as remote areas and off-grid installations.

Fritelli Fabio, Managing Director of NEXTCHEM, stated that this solution will cover the entire value chain of low-carbon methanol, providing leading production technologies while exploring more application scenarios, accelerating demand growth, and promoting the establishment of a low-carbon methanol economy. Sachero Giuseppe, Vice President of Oil & Gas and Chemical Solutions at Siemens Energy, pointed out that the collaboration leverages the respective industry expertise of both parties, and fuel cells, as a crucial part of the clean fuel technology ecosystem, are suitable for various industrial applications such as electrolysis, power generation, and ESS.

MAIRE S.p.A. is a leading technology engineering group driving the energy transition, offering integrated engineering and construction solutions for downstream markets. Through its three business segments—sustainable fertilizers, low-carbon energy carriers, and circular solutions—it provides sustainable technologies, operating in nearly 50 countries with approximately 10,200 employees and listed on the Milan Stock Exchange.