UK duo test methanol-fuelled range extender for electric vessels

UK-based boat builder Archipelago Yachts and engineering firm Chartwell Marine have successfully demonstrated a methanol-fuelled range extender, designed to overcome the limitations of battery-electric vessels.

IMAGE: Archipelago Yachts’ vessel concept. Chartwell Marine

Tested at Archipelago Yachts' facility on the Isle of Wight, the system converts methanol into hydrogen, which is then used by a fuel cell to generate electricity. By eliminating the need for combustion engines, it provides a practical solution for extending the operational range of electric vessels.

The technology offers an effective energy density around of 12 times higher than the currently available marine lithium iron phosphate batteries, according to Archipelago Yachts.

Although battery-electric propulsion is increasingly suitable for short-range operations, its relatively low energy density continues to restrict its use on longer voyages, commercial vessels and offshore applications. The project aims to address this key barrier to wider electrification in the maritime sector.

The prototype integrates commercially available components, including a marine methanol reformer, a hydrogen fuel cell, a 100-kilowatt (kW) electric propulsion system and a 100-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack. The entire setup was installed inside a modified 20-foot container, allowing the companies to carry out extensive testing and gather performance data under representative operating conditions.

The companies have already identified a prospective first customer interested in installing the system aboard an all-electric Archipelago vessel.

Archipelago Yachts and Chartwell Marine are now exploring the next phase of development, which could include a sea-going demonstrator vessel and additional funding applications to accelerate commercialisation.

The technology could help decarbonise explorer yachts, pilot boats, offshore wind support vessels and other marine segments where battery-only propulsion is not yet a practical solution.

The project forms part of the Methanol Pathfinder UK initiative, funded by Innovate UK through the UK Government's Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC6) and UK SHORE programme.

By Tuhin Roy

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