Rolls-Royce has successfully completed testing of the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered entirely by methanol at its Friedrichshafen test facility. The milestone, achieved in collaboration with partners in the meOHmare research project, marks a significant step toward climate-neutral propulsion solutions for shipping.

The engine is designed for efficient operation on green methanol, produced via renewable electricity in a power-to-X process, offering a CO2-neutral alternative to conventional marine fuels. The project has involved redesigning combustion, turbocharging, and engine control systems to accommodate methanol’s unique properties, with initial tests showing smooth operation.

The meOHmare project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, combines expertise from Rolls-Royce, Woodward L’Orange, and the WTZ Roßlau technology center. The initiative aims to deliver a comprehensive concept for a CO2-neutral marine engine by the end of 2025. Rolls-Royce is also developing a dual-fuel variant to operate on methanol and diesel, supporting wider adoption until green methanol supply is fully established.

Methanol offers several advantages as a marine fuel, including ease of storage, biodegradability, high energy density, and significantly lower pollutant emissions compared with fossil fuels. This successful test positions methanol as a practical, near-term solution for ferry, yacht, and supply vessel operators seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.