Electrochaea, Erik Thun partner to explore e-methane as maritime fuel

Electrochaea, a Munich-based technology company, and Swedish shipowner Erik Thun have signed a letter of intent to commence negotiations regarding the off-take of e-methane produced by Electrochaea's subsidiary BioCAT Roslev in Denmark for utilisation as maritime fuel in Erik Thun's vessels, the German company said on March 18.

Electrochaea is currently engaged in establishing a power-to-gas production facility in Skive, Denmark. The facility will utilise renewable power from wind to produce green hydrogen, which will then be combined with CO2 sourced from biogas production at Rybjerg Biogas in a bioreactor. Electrochaea's patented bio-methanation technology will facilitate the conversion process, resulting in the production of e-methane.

The produced e-methane will be integrated into the Danish gas grid, contributing to the decarbonisation efforts of gas consumers across Europe. Importantly, the e-methane will fully comply with EU requirements, according to Electrochaea. 

Erik Thun plans to adopt e-methane as a substitute for fossil-based LNG fuel in its vessels. This decision allows Erik Thun to operate its existing LNG fleet without the need to modify propulsion systems for accommodating other renewable fuels.

"Walking the path to carbon neutrality poses enormous challenges," Johan Kallsson, managing director of Erik Thun, said. "At Erik Thun AB, we are steadfast in our commitment to lead this transition by integrating renewable fuels into our operations. Currently, we are actively exploring different alternatives. For our vessels running on LNG, e-methane is emerging as a cleaner option.”

Erik Thun currently owns and operates nearly 50 vessels, with seven fuelled by LNG.