Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world's first high-speed marine engine that runs exclusively on methanol. Green methanol is considered a promising, climate-friendly marine fuel as it is CO₂-neutral, easy to store and clean. The new engine technology was developed specifically for methanol. At the same time, Rolls-Royce is working on a dual-fuel concept (methanol/diesel) as an interim solution.

The joint project meOHmare is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy and combines the expertise of Rolls-Royce, the injection system specialist Woodward L'Orange and the Technology and Research Centre WTZ Roßlau. The aim is to develop a fully comprehensive concept for a CO2-neutral marine engine based on green methanol by the end of 2025.

Methanol presents engineers with challenges: The liquid alcohol does not ignite itself like diesel and requires newly developed injection technology: Green methanol is a sustainable fuel - and the technology is there. However, it also means that the single-fuel methanol engine is an attractive solution for operators of ferries, yachts or supply vessels. The task now is to create the framework conditions for broader utilisation, i.e. we are not yet ready for larger seagoing vessels.

Further information on the "meOHmare" joint project can be found here: https://marineforum.online/verbundvorhaben-entwickelt-bis-2025-schiffsmotor-der-zukunft/