MODEC and Eld Energy have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop a 1.2 MW energy system that combines solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology with carbon capture, targeting future deployment on floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels.
The collaboration aims to support the offshore industry’s decarbonization efforts by delivering a high-efficiency power generation solution capable of significantly reducing operational emissions.
Under the agreement, Eld Energy will lead the design, procurement, construction, testing and validation of the SOFC-based power generation system, while MODEC will be responsible for developing the carbon capture facility and integrating the combined solution into future FPSO platforms.
The partners plan to conduct onshore testing of the 1.2 MW unit in 2029, followed by a long-term demonstration program to assess performance under real-world operating conditions.
Building on Earlier SOFC and Carbon Capture Development
The partnership builds on a collaboration that began in 2025, during which the companies worked on smaller-scale SOFC systems for marine applications.
Development has progressed from 40 kW units to 120 kW systems alongside pilot carbon capture initiatives, with the new project representing a significant step towards commercial-scale deployment for offshore energy production.
SOFC technology generates electricity through a high-temperature electrochemical process, offering higher efficiency than conventional power generation systems and the flexibility to operate on a range of fuels.
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When integrated with carbon capture technology, the system has the potential to substantially reduce emissions while maintaining the reliability and continuous power supply required for offshore operations.
As the offshore sector faces increasing pressure to lower emissions without compromising operational performance, MODEC and Eld Energy see the combination of advanced fuel cell technology and carbon capture as a promising pathway towards zero-emission FPSOs.
The project aims to demonstrate a scalable energy architecture capable of supporting the long-term decarbonization of offshore oil and gas production.
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