MoU signed to explore methanol for SOVs

US-based Caterpillar Marine has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Norway-based Solstad Offshore, one of the biggest offshore support operators in the world, and Pon Power, the Norway-based distributor of Caterpillar products.

The MoU sets out plans to ‘identify and evaluate solutions that will increase the fuel efficiency of Solstad’s offshore vessels and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions’, a statement said.

The three have close working partnerships, with 50% of Solstad’s fleet powered by Cat engines.

Pon Power has worked closely with Solstad for 35 years.

“As part of our effort to help the maritime industry achieve a reduced-carbon future, we’re committed to supporting our customers’ climate-related objectives through methanol-powered solutions,” said Brad Johnson, vice president and general manager of Caterpillar Marine. “These solutions are fuel-efficient, cost-effective and meet our fuel standards. Solstad and Pon Power AS are a perfect fit for these efforts.”

The Solstad fleet comprises more than 40 modern ships operating worldwide,

including anchor-handling tug supply vessels with bollard pull of up to 339 tonnes. As well as options for the subsea sectors.

In the race for an alternative fuels there is still no clear leader, but methanol is certainly in the running.

Last year Ørsted and ESVAGT announced they were planning to launch a service operation vessel for offshore wind operations that would be powered by e-methanol, which it described as ‘a strong match for our SOVs’.