A Norwegian consortium has joined forces to develop a solution for decarbonizing the maritime industry by capturing and storing CO2 from LNG-powered propulsion systems based on solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).
The research project was officially announced at a press conference aboard Havila Capella in Ålesund on 26 March. The LNGameChanger project is led by maritime technology provider HAV Group in collaboration with coastal shipping company Havila Kystruten, natural gas company Molgas Norway (formerly Gasnor), and research institute SINTEF.
LNGameChanger’s main objective is to design an innovative, decarbonized LNG-powered propulsion system that combines solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) with an efficient onboard CO2 capture and storage solution (OCCS). The system aims to meet the EU’s 2045-2050 emission targets. The first phase involves feasibility studies and simulations to evaluate the SOFC propulsion system’s viability before moving to prototype development in a follow-up project.
Key goals of the project include:
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Confirming energy efficiency and emissions reduction of the SOFC propulsion system with CO2 capture.
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Conducting simulations based on operational profiles of relevant vessels, such as Havila Kystruten’s four coastal cruise ships.
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Defining performance, space, and weight requirements for integrating this technology into ships.
If successful, HAV Group intends to further develop the technology into a commercial product, incorporating it into its portfolio of low- and zero-emission maritime solutions.
The Norwegian Research Council has awarded 5 million NOK in funding for the project over two years, supporting research from SINTEF. HAV Group, Havila Kystruten, and Molgas Norway will actively contribute with technical expertise and project execution.
