The Methanorms project brings together 14 maritime partners and subcontractors, combining expertise across design, engineering, regulation, operations, and training. Our mission is to revolutionize shipping by proving that methanol retrofits are not only technically feasible but also commercially viable.
Methanol is a versatile alternative fuel. Produced either as bio-methanol from sustainable biomass or as e-methanol from captured carbon dioxide and renewable hydrogen, it offers a clear path toward reducing shipping’s carbon footprint. Methanol engines cut CO₂ emissions by up to 88%, while also significantly lowering NOx and particulate matter emissions. Yet, barriers such as fuel infrastructure, cost, and regulatory uncertainty remain. Methanorms addresses these head-on.
Fuel storage and safety systems, advanced injection technology, digital twin modelling.
Retrofit of the Fugro Galaxy to 75% methanol, later upgraded to 97%.
Data collection, validation, safety testing, and human capital development.
By following this roadmap, Methanorms aims to set the benchmark for retrofitting vessels at scale, contributing directly to new IMO codes and international regulations. Our ambition is to ensure the Dutch maritime sector leads the global retrofit market, providing sustainable solutions for both inland and seagoing vessels.
Methanorms builds on the technical groundwork laid by the MENENS project, taking methanol retrofits to the next level. By retrofitting the Fugro Galaxy with a dual-fuel system using up to 97% methanol, we are setting new standards in retrofitting safety, efficiency, and scalability.
Key innovations include:
Through this project, we aim to influence international standards, accelerate industry adoption, and reduce retrofit costs by up to 40% compared to full engine replacement.
Training, education, and future-proofing maritime careers
Methanorms contributes directly to the Human Capital Agenda of the Maritime Masterplan through STCW-aligned training, internships, and cross-partner skill-building.
Key Initiatives
“We believe preparing the workforce is just as critical as engineering the technology.”
