MODEC Completed Feasibility for FPSO Fuel Cell Power
The successful concept verification paves the way for offshore operators to integrate high-efficiency power modules.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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MODEC and Eld Energy have completed the Technology Feasibility and Concept Verification stage for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) power systems intended for use on Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels. The American Bureau of Shipping has issued a New Technology Qualification milestone following an independent review of the systems.
Why it matters
Operators of offshore facilities are under pressure to improve energy efficiency and lower emissions, making the transition to produced-gas-fed fuel cells a critical shift for managing power overhead. By validating these systems for FPSO environments, the project signals a path toward reducing reliance on traditional combustion-based power generation.
The pilot Eld Power Module provides a 40kW output, with future designs planned to scale to 120kW units. The project targets an overall system efficiency of approximately 70%.
The players
MODEC
A global provider of floating production systems for the offshore oil and gas industry.
Eld Energy
A technology developer focused on modular power systems for the energy sector.
American Bureau of Shipping
A classification society that sets safety and technical standards for marine and offshore infrastructure.
The details
The SOFC technology functions by utilizing gas produced directly from the FPSO, alongside hydrogen-rich gas recycled from integrated carbon capture systems. MODEC conducted comprehensive risk assessments, including HAZID, HAZOP, and FMEA, to ensure the system is safe for offshore integration. Future testing will involve installing the module on an operating FPSO to monitor real-world performance using produced gas.
Timeline
October 2, 2026: The feasibility verification was confirmed.
Market Landscape
This development aligns with the International Maritime Organization's carbon intensity reduction mandates by offering a technical pathway for offshore facilities to lower emissions. It represents a significant step beyond standard combustion-based power generation currently dominant in offshore fleets.
Offshore operators should monitor the pilot performance of the 40kW module as an indicator for future modular power capacity. Evaluate how fuel cell integration might reduce fuel costs by utilizing otherwise flared or wasted produced gas.
The takeaway
The move toward fuel cell integration highlights the increasing importance of modular, high-efficiency power in offshore operations. Operators should track the pilot results as they move toward the 120kW scale to determine if these systems align with upcoming fleet maintenance or upgrade cycles.
Further reading
For more on evolving offshore infrastructure, see our latest coverage in Oil and Gas.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fuelcellsworks.
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