US company Advent Technologies has received approval for funding for its latest R&D project, known as RiverCell 3, which aims to develop a maritime fuel cell system resulting in an auxiliary power unit with a total capacity exceeding 500kW.
This will be based on Advent’s modular 50kW eMethanol-powered fuel cell systems, known as Serene, incorporating Advent’s Ion-Pair membrane electrode assembly (MEA) technology.
The RiverCell 3 project has a total budget of approximately US $12.4m, from which Advent’s budgeted portion is around US $6.1m. The collaborative partners involved in the project include Meyer Neptun, Siemens Energy , Lloyd’s Register EMEA Niederlassung Deutschland and Hochschule Wismar Bereich Seefahrt, Anlagentechnik und Logistik. The project, which commenced in January 2024, is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026.
RiverCell 3 builds upon previous RiverCell initiatives, in which Advent played a pivotal role, which demonstrated the effectiveness of its Serene fuel cells to the maritime sector. The latest project will include Advent’s MEA technology, opening the market for fuel cell systems designed for larger vessels.
The Ion Pair MEA technology is expected to enable extending the expected lifespan of fuel cells by at least three times and doubling the power density compared to Advent’s earlier systems. The technology has been enabled through Advent’s participation in the US Department of Energy’s L’Innovator programme, in collaboration with various US research institutions .
The successful completion of RiverCell3 is anticipated to make a substantial contribution to the objectives outlined in the revised IMO GHG Strategy. The RiverCell 3 project is partially funded by the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport as part of the National Innovation Programme Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology.
Dr Vasilis Gregoriou, Advent Chairman and CEO, said: “We express our sincere appreciation to the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport for their funding support, and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with our esteemed partners on this groundbreaking project for the maritime industry. Undoubtedly, the Ion Pair MEA technology will significantly enhance the capabilities of our Serene fuel cell systems, positioning them as a pivotal clean energy solution for the future of maritime operations.”
Morten Sørensen, SVP Advent Technologies added: “The growing adoption of eMethanol as an environmentally friendly fuel in maritime settings stems from its notable energy density, convenient handling, and minimal emissions. As the maritime sector intensifies its endeavours to cut carbon footprints and comply with environmental regulations, Advent’s eMethanol fuel cells stand out as the preferred choice, providing a compelling substitute for conventional diesel generators and engines that can be easily embraced today.”
