MODEC, Inc. has signed a contract with Norway-based Eld Energy AS to design and manufacture a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) pilot unit, which will be installed on one of MODEC’s FPSOs. This collaboration marks a major step in MODEC’s efforts to explore cleaner energy solutions for offshore operations.
Following a successful feasibility study conducted in early 2025, the companies are now entering Phase 2 of the project. This phase will include engineering, manufacturing, offshore installation, and pilot testing of a 40 kW SOFC system. The unit, currently under development at Eld Energy’s facility in Bergen, Norway, is scheduled for installation in 2026.
The project aims to demonstrate the technical viability of SOFCs in offshore environments—offering a low-emission, high-efficiency alternative to conventional power systems. Notably, lab tests using simulated produced gas, including heavier hydrocarbons, were successfully conducted during Phase 1.
MODEC’s CTO, Koichi Matsumiya, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation in clean energy, acknowledging the challenges but reaffirming their drive to lead in low-GHG solutions. Eld Energy’s CEO, Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes, highlighted the strategic importance of this pilot as a step forward in decarbonizing offshore operations.
With this initiative, both companies aim to pave the way for integrating advanced fuel cell technology into FPSO platforms, supporting the broader industry transition to more sustainable practices.
Source: MODEC