ABS has issued new technology qualification (NTQ) approval to Modec and Eld Energy for a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power system developed for use on floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) units.
The Eld Power Module, which has achieved the technology feasibility and concept verification stages of NTQ, is a high-efficiency SOFC developed to run on FPSO-produced associated gas and alternative fuels. Modec and Eld Energy aim to achieve electrical efficiency of up to 70% through fuel recovery and carbon management integration. The system is designed to connect with carbon capture equipment as that technology matures.
Matthew Tremblay, ABS SVP Global Offshore Markets, said: “Fuel cell technology has real potential to change the emissions profile of FPSO power generation. The ABS NTQ process gives Modec and Eld Energy a structured way to demonstrate that the technology performs as claimed and that the risks are understood and managed. These steps are key to moving new technologies closer to routine offshore use.”
Modec is planning to pilot a 40kW installation and offshore trial on an FPSO, where it will be tested against real marine and production conditions. A successful offshore trial will advance the programme to ABS prototype validation. Results from the 40kW campaign are expected to feed directly into the next phases, including a 120kW module and, in later stages, a multi-megawatt, full-scale SOFC system.
Koichi Matsumiya, CTO Modec, said: “Modec aims to balance the seemingly conflicting challenges of protecting the global environment and ensuring a stable energy supply by innovative ideas using offshore floating facilities. We, together with Eld, are advancing the development of an innovative, compact, low-carbon power system by leveraging the high fuel efficiency of SOFC and their strong compatibility with carbon capture, aiming to expand the power supply solutions for offshore production facilities.”
Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes, CEO Eld Energy, added: “This milestone shows that our novel offshore power generation concept can meet the demanding safety standards of the industry. Early engagement with class has been very helpful in bringing the product forward. This marks a significant step toward decarbonisation of offshore operations.”
The NTQ process advances through defined stages, from initial feasibility through prototype validation and system integration, with each stage producing a Statement of Maturity for project stakeholders, clients and the supply chain.
Image: Modec and Eld Energy receive NTQ from ABS (source: ABS)
