First VLCV to Retrofit Dual-Fuel Engine for 90% CO2 Emission Reduction

MAN Energy Solutions has successfully completed the retrofit of the main engine of the Very Large Container Vessel ‘Maersk Halifax’ to a dual-fuel MAN B&W ME-LGIM unit. This project, carried out by MAN PrimeServ, marks the first of its kind globally for a VLCV. The vessel, with a capacity of 15,000 teu, was originally powered by an MAN B&W 8G95ME-C9.5 prime mover. The retrofit to an 8G95ME-LGIM Mk10.5 engine now allows the Maersk Halifax to operate on green methanol, resulting in a significant reduction of CO2 emissions by 90%.

In addition to the engine retrofit, the vessel’s engine-control system was upgraded to MAN Energy Solutions’ latest Triton system. After successful sea trials, the Maersk Halifax has resumed operation and is currently servicing A.P. Moller – Maersk’s Trans-Pacific trade route. Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management and Technology at Maersk, emphasized the importance of retrofitting existing vessels with dual-fuel engines as part of their goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

The Maersk Halifax retrofit project is seen as a model for future initiatives, with Maersk already planning to convert an additional 10 vessels from its fleet to methanol operation. Michael Petersen, Senior Vice President and Head of PrimeServ Denmark, highlighted the significance of retrofits in reducing CO2 emissions without the need for newbuilds. He estimates that over 4,000 existing marine engines have the potential to be converted to operate on green fuels like e-methanol and e-methane.

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