HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE)’s Eco Propulsion (EP) Division has signed a contract with Taizhou Sanfu Shipyard in China to supply HiMSEN methanol engines for two 166-meter Subsea Rock Installation (SRIV) vessels. These vessels, designed for offshore wind farm construction and maintenance, will be powered by four 3MW-class HiMSEN methanol engines and four generators from HD Hyundai Electric. Deliveries are scheduled for the first half of 2026.
Equipped with a Dynamic Positioning (DP) system, the vessels will ensure precise positioning during offshore operations, crucial for wind farm infrastructure installation and maintenance. The use of methanol-powered engines is part of the ongoing global effort to reduce carbon emissions and minimize the environmental impact of offshore activities.
A representative from HD KSOE’s Eco Propulsion Division commented, “We aim to expand our influence in the eco-friendly ship market and grow as a comprehensive provider of sustainable electric propulsion systems, contributing to marine environmental protection.”
World’s First Commercially Developed Medium-Speed Methanol Dual-Fuel Engine
Earlier, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries announced that its HiMSEN methanol engine was selected as one of the “Top 10 Mechanical Technologies of Korea in 2024.” Developed in September 2022, the HiMSEN methanol engine is the world’s first medium-speed methanol dual-fuel engine to succeed in mass production. Capable of generating an output of 3 to 4.5 MW, it is suitable for both power generation and propulsion in ships, as well as for land-based power generation.
The engine features a high-pressure direct injection system that enhances both output and efficiency. In this design, air is compressed in the combustion chamber, a pilot fuel is ignited, and then high-pressure methanol is injected to improve efficiency. This system allows the engine to operate close to complete combustion, significantly reducing exhaust emissions caused by unburned fuel.
Since its launch, the HiMSEN methanol engine has secured 346 units in contracts, achieving a 72% market share in the marine medium-speed methanol engine sector. It was also installed in the world’s first methanol-powered container ship, delivered by HD Hyundai last year.
A representative from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries stated, “As the global leader in the marine engine market, we will continue to lead the environmentally friendly engine market going forward.”
Methanol as a Key Fuel for Maritime Decarbonization
Methanol is becoming an increasingly viable alternative fuel in the maritime industry, offering a cleaner solution to reduce carbon emissions. The HiMSEN methanol engine, developed by HD Hyundai, is the world’s first medium-speed methanol dual-fuel engine to be mass-produced. The innovative engine incorporates a high-pressure direct injection system, enhancing both efficiency and output while minimizing emissions. By achieving near-complete combustion, the engine significantly reduces exhaust emissions, enabling ships to meet stringent environmental standards.
The growing adoption of methanol-powered engines signals the industry’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and aligning with the decarbonization targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
HD Hyundai’s Commitment to Green Innovation
As a global leader in shipbuilding and marine engine technologies, HD Hyundai remains at the forefront of the transition to greener, more sustainable shipping solutions. With over 346 HiMSEN methanol engines contracted, the company continues to solidify its leadership position in the environmentally responsible marine technology sector, reinforcing its commitment to international environmental regulations and global decarbonization goals.
Methanol’s Growing Role in Maritime Bunkering
As the maritime industry works towards achieving its decarbonization targets, methanol is rapidly gaining traction as a preferred alternative fuel. The integration of methanol-powered engines into vessels highlights the increasing demand for cleaner fuels. For bunkering companies, this trend presents significant opportunities to provide sustainable fuel options that help meet the maritime industry’s decarbonization goals.
With continued innovation from companies like HD Hyundai, the maritime industry is making significant strides toward a greener future. This shift not only benefits shipbuilding but also supports the bunkering industry’s role in the transition to cleaner fuels and technologies.
Source HD Hyundai