Delta Electronics has partnered with Modec and Eld Energy to develop a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system for use on a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading platform (FPSO). An FPSO is a floating platform typically used in offshore oil production. The usual power output is in the two- to three-digit megawatt range. The partners' initial goal is a pilot project with a 120 kW SOFC system by 2027. The agreement was signed at Delta's Tainan Plant 2 site.
As part of the cooperation, Delta will supply the solid oxide stacks, power conditioning systems (PCS), and converters for Eld Energy's integrated SOFC system. The technology is to be used for the first time on an FPSO facility, enabling stable, low-emission power supply in the offshore sector. "With this collaboration we hope to develop a comprehensive
hydrogen solution—from stacks and fuel cells to power management systems—onto a newly built FPSO.," said Charles Tsai, General Manager of Delta's hydrogen division.
Koichi Matsumiya, CTO of MODEC, emphasized: "This joint hydrogen research aims to enable stable offshore power supply while reducing carbon emissions."
Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes, CEO of Eld Energy, stated: "This project validates SOFC mass production and feasibility, accelerating maritime decarbonization."
Manufacturing of the fuel cell systems for offshore application is to begin in 2026
Delta plans to start mass production of its solid oxide stacks and fuel cells by the end of 2026. According to the company, the SOFC systems achieve over 60 percent electrical efficiency, and with heat recovery, up to 85 percent. However, Delta does not specify the boundary conditions. A fundamental advantage of SOFC systems is that they can be operated with different fuels. The use of natural gas is obvious and has been common for supplying such offshore energy systems. Whether hydrogen is to be extracted from the natural gas and how this affects overall efficiency and emissions remains open in the press release.
In addition to maritime applications, the new fuel cell solutions are also intended for energy-intensive industries such as data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, and microgrids.
Delta is a global provider of power supply solutions and automation technology based in Taiwan. The company has been investing in hydrogen technologies for several years, particularly in SOFC and Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC).
