#NextChem #Siemens Energy #Methanol

NEXTCHEM and Siemens Energy Collaboration

In a significant move towards sustainable energy solutions, NEXTCHEM, part of the MAIRE group, has announced a partnership with Siemens Energy. This collaboration focuses on the development of high-temperature modular methanol fuel cell systems tailored for the maritime industry. On September 30, 2025, both companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding that sets the groundwork for an innovative approach to energy production aboard ships.

Objective and Technological Vision

The primary goal of this partnership is to deliver a highly efficient methanol fuel cell module designed by NEXTCHEM. Siemens Energy will integrate the system onboard and provide energy management solutions. The collaboration also aims to promote a green transition within the maritime sector, notably beginning with the luxury yacht market. This innovative fuel cell technology is expected to generate hydrogen from low-carbon methanol, facilitating operations that achieve net-zero emissions both at anchor and during navigation.

Environmental Impact

An essential feature of this new fuel cell system is its capacity to replace significant amounts of fossil-based marine diesel fuel, thus preventing emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur, which are heavily regulated pollutants. By utilizing low-carbon methanol, the partnership asserts its commitment to reducing carbon footprints in maritime operations.

The first industrial-scale installation of this groundbreaking system is currently being planned, set to be integrated into an iconic net-zero emissions yacht that is presently under construction. This yacht will showcase the capabilities and advantages of cleaner energy technologies in shipbuilding.

Beyond Maritime Applications

While the initial focus is on luxury yachts, the high-efficiency modular methanol fuel cell units designed by NEXTCHEM hold potential for a variety of applications beyond the maritime realm. These units are ideal for stationary zero-emission energy generation, providing base load power and backup support for data centers and industrial processes, and they are suitable for remote installations not connected to traditional power grids.

Leadership Insight

Fabio Fritelli, the CEO of NEXTCHEM, highlighted that with this modular and highly efficient fuel cell solution, the company aims to cover the entire value chain of low-carbon methanol. He emphasized that this innovative technology not only offers cutting-edge production methods but also facilitates novel applications for methanol. This, in turn, is expected to accelerate demand growth and lead to a broader establishment of a low-carbon methanol economy.

Giuseppe Sachero, Vice President of Oil, Gas, and Chemical Solutions at Siemens Energy, reinforced the significance of this collaboration. He stated that it exemplifies the vital role of key players in the energy transition value chain. By leveraging the strengths and experiences of both companies, they aim to enhance the ecosystem of clean fuel technologies, which encompasses electrolysis, electricity generation, and storage technologies applicable across multiple industrial sectors.

About MAIRE S.p.A.

MAIRE S.p.A. is a leading technology and engineering group dedicated to driving the Energy Transition. The company provides Integrated Engineering and Construction Solutions (E&C) for the downstream market and Sustainable Technological Solutions across three core business lines: Sustainable Fertilizers, Low-Carbon Energy Vectors, and Circular Solutions. Operating in 50 countries with a workforce of nearly 10,200 employees and supported by around 50,000 professionals, MAIRE is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange under the symbol