- MOL and SHI received an AiP for an LNG carrier design featuring a 300 kW solid oxide fuel cell system.
- SOFC technology improves energy efficiency and significantly cuts harmful emissions without combustion.
- A comprehensive risk assessment, including HAZID and HAZOP, was key to securing approval.
- The project aligns with MOL’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register for the design of a 174,000-cubic-meter LNG carrier featuring Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology. The vessel will include a 300 kW SOFC unit, provided by Bloom Energy, to serve as an auxiliary power source. Delivery of the ship is scheduled for 2027.
Advancing Clean Energy in LNG Carrier Design
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology offers a high-efficiency, high-temperature method of generating electricity by directly converting fuels such as natural gas, hydrogen, methanol, or ammonia into power and heat through an electrochemical process. Unlike conventional combustion methods, SOFC operates without burning fuel, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing harmful pollutants like NOx, SOx, and methane slip to minimal levels.
Although the use of SOFC systems on ships is still emerging, this project underwent a detailed risk assessment, including Hazard Identification (HAZID) and Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP), in coordination with project partners. This assessment led to the successful acquisition of Approval in Principle.
The AiP certification ceremony was held on 3 June 2025 at NOVA Spektrum in Lillestrøm, Norway, during the Norshipping 2025 maritime exhibition.
Since mid-2022, MOL and SHI have been working together on a pilot project to integrate a 300kW SOFC unit into the design of a 174,000-cubic-meter LNG carrier. An agreement for its mutual application was reached in June 2024. Joint verification of the system is expected to begin in early 2027. The project highlights both companies’ focus on advancing innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector, contributing to the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
This initiative supports the MOL Group’s Environmental Vision, which aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, reinforcing its commitment to a decarbonized and sustainable future.
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Source: Mitsui O.S.K.Lines
