MAN signs MoU with Stena and Proman for engine retrofits

Under the terms of the current agreement, the project will begin with a feasibility study defining the scope and limits of the project, the division of work and respective responsibilities.

This is to investigate methanol combustion according to the Otto combustion principle with methanol port fuel injection due to the inherent advantages for legacy installations. Developments on methanol direct injection technology for newbuilds and the potential for later retrofits may also be considered here.

After completing the feasibility study, the second phase involves retrofitting the engines, commissioning and field testing.

The third and final phase will involve completing field testing, and engine handover for commercial operation.

PrimeServ Germany head Stefan Eefting, said, “Methanol has great potential as a future-fuel and is clean, efficient and safe to work with. It offers significant greenhouse gas reductions, and is even net-zero when produced from renewable energy sources. I’m certain many interested parties will be watching this retrofit’s progress.”

Switzerland-headquartered Proman is a major methanol producer. Stena and Proman announced their partnership to develop a methanol retrofit and fuel-supply business last year and the Proman Stena Bulk JV announced the launch of Stena Pro Patria, the first of three 49,900-dwt methanol dual-fuel MR tankers that will be jointly built by the two companies.