In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy, which sets out clear levels of ambition for the sector. Compared to 2008 levels, the strategy aims to reduce the total annual GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 20%, striving for 30%, by 2030. By 2040, these emissions are to be further slashed by at least 70%, striving for 80%, with the ultimate goal of reaching net-zero GHG emissions by or around 2050. This framework has placed immense pressure on the shipping industry to accelerate its energy transition and decarbonization efforts, prompting a proactive shift toward alternative energy sources and zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies.

Delta Electronics, Inc. (Delta) announced a partnership with MODEC, Inc. (MODEC) and fuel cell developer Eld Energy AS ('Eld Energy') to advance the maritime energy transition. Under the agreement, Delta will supply Solid Oxide Stacks, Power Conditioning Systems (PCS), and converters for Eld Energy’s integrated Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system, designed for deployment on a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) application. The partners target a 120kW SOFC system pilot trial by 2027. This milestone marks the first application of SOFC technology on an FPSO, laying the foundation for hydrogen energy in the maritime power segment. 
From left to right: Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes, CEO of Eld Energy, Koichi Matsumiya, CTO of MODEC, and Charles Tsai, General Manager of Delta’s Hydrogen Energy Business Division

The signing ceremony took place at Delta’s Tainan Plant 2. Dr. Charles Tsai, General Manager of Delta’s Hydrogen Energy Business Division, said, "Delta is dedicated to providing innovative, energy-efficient solutions. In recent years, we have actively invested in hydrogen energy development to empower industries in their transition toward a low-carbon future. 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. By replacing conventional equipment with low-carbon alternatives, this project extends Delta’s hydrogen blueprint into maritime applications." 

Koichi Matsumiya, CTO of MODEC, commented, "As a leader in floating production solutions, MODEC combines offshore expertise with a commitment to sustainability. We are honored to collaborate with Delta and Eld Energy. This joint hydrogen R&D initiative aims to ensure stable offshore power while reducing carbon emissions, accelerating our progress toward net-zero goals."

Hans Fredrik Lindøen-Kjellnes, CEO of Eld Energy, stated, "Eld Energy specializes in offshore and maritime energy solutions. This collaboration integrates Delta’s Solid Oxide Stacks into our SOFC systems, offering superior efficiency and stability. This project validates SOFC mass production and feasibility, accelerating maritime decarbonization."

Delta focuses on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC) technologies. Mass production of Delta's solid oxide stacks and fuel cells is scheduled to begin by the end of 2026. The SOFC system achieves over 60% power generation efficiency, reaching 85% with heat recovery. These solutions provide stable, low-carbon power for energy-intensive industries—such as data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, and display production—as well as for microgrids and the maritime sector. Delta remains committed to technological innovation and industry collaboration to accelerate the global energy transition.