- MAN Energy Solutions successfully retrofitted Maersk Halifax’s engine to operate on green methanol, reducing CO2 emissions by 90%.
- Maersk is planning additional conversions to meet its net-zero target by 2040.
- Over 4,000 existing marine engines globally could be converted to green fuels.
MAN Energy Solutions has retrofitted the Maersk Halifax, a 15,000 teu Very Large Container Vessel (VLCV), with a dual-fuel engine capable of running on green methanol. This pioneering project demonstrates the shipping industry’s commitment to decarbonization, aligning with Maersk’s ambitious climate goals.
A Milestone in Engine Retrofits
The Maersk Halifax’s original MAN B&W 8G95ME-C9.5 engine was upgraded to an 8G95ME-LGIM Mk10.5 unit. This conversion allows the vessel to operate on green methanol, achieving a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions. The upgrade also included a transition to the advanced Triton engine-control system, ensuring enhanced efficiency.
After successful sea trials, the vessel resumed service on Maersk’s Trans-Pacific trade route. The retrofit’s success highlights its potential as a scalable solution for reducing emissions in existing fleets.
Strategic Implications for Decarbonization
The Halifax project is seen as a prototype for future endeavors, with Maersk preordering retrofits for 10 additional vessels. Retrofits are cost-effective alternatives to newbuilds, enabling rapid decarbonization.
The company’s “Moving Big Things To Zero” strategy identifies retrofits as a key growth area. Flexible dual-fuel engines provide shipowners with the capability to switch between fuels, ensuring operational reliability while meeting environmental regulations.
Collaborative Efforts in Asia-Pacific
The retrofit was carried out at the Asia Pacific Dockyard in Zhoushan, China. Regional collaboration and supportive policies were credited with fostering innovation and setting the stage for similar projects in the future.
Sarath Prasannan from MAN Energy Solutions highlighted the project as a pivotal step towards decarbonization, underscoring China’s role in enabling such transformative initiatives.
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Source: MAN ES
