Three players, Japan’s MODEC, Norway’s Eld Energy, and Delta Electronics, have joined forces to expand hydrogen use in the maritime sector, driving energy transition by deploying solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology for the first time on a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel.
After MODEC and Eld Energy pooled resources on a scalable multi-MW power system for FPSO units to pursue zero-carbon power, Delta Electronics joined in on the action to advance maritime decarbonization by striking a deal to supply solid oxide stacks, power conditioning systems (PCS), and converters for the Norwegian firm’s integrated SOFC system, designed for FPSO application.
Dr. Charles Tsai , General Manager of Delta’s Hydrogen Energy Business Division, commented: “Delta is dedicated to providing innovative, energy-efficient solutions. In recent years, we have actively invested in hydrogen energy development to empower industries in their transition toward a low-carbon future.
“With this collaboration we hope to develop a comprehensive hydrogen solution—from stacks and fuel cells to power management systems—onto a newly built FPSO. By replacing conventional equipment with low-carbon alternatives, this project extends Delta’s hydrogen blueprint into maritime applications.”
The signing ceremony took place at Delta’s Tainan Plant 2. The partners target a 120 kW SOFC system pilot trial by 2027, said to mark the first application of SOFC technology on an FPSO and lay the foundation for hydrogen energy in the maritime power segment.
Koichi Matsumiya , CTO of MODEC, underlined: “As a leader in floating production solutions, MODEC combines offshore expertise with a commitment to sustainability. We are honored to collaborate with Delta and Eld Energy. This joint hydrogen R&D initiative aims to ensure stable offshore power while reducing carbon emissions, accelerating our progress toward net-zero goals.”
The mass production of Delta’s solid oxide stacks and fuel cells is scheduled to begin by the end of 2026. The SOFC system is perceived to achieve over 60% power generation efficiency, reaching 85% with heat recovery.
These solutions are deemed to provide stable, low-carbon power for energy-intensive industries, such as data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, and display production, as well as for microgrids and the maritime sector.
Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes , CEO of Eld Energy, emphasized: “Eld Energy specializes in offshore and maritime energy solutions. This collaboration integrates Delta’s solid oxide stacks into our SOFC systems, offering superior efficiency and stability. This project validates SOFC mass production and feasibility, accelerating maritime decarbonization.”