MAN Energy Solutions to Provide Methanol-Ready 175D-MEV Engines for Norwegian Vessels

A Norwegian shipyard, Ulstein Verft AS, has ordered two MAN 12V 175D-MEV methanol-ready engines to install on two commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) for Bernard Schulte Offshore (BS Offshore), a subsidiary of the Schulte Group. These CSOVs are designed to support the offshore wind-energy market and will be delivered in 2025. Four additional vessels may be added to BS Offshore’s fleet upon delivery.

“As an industry that provides renewable energy, the spotlight is firmly on offshore wind farms regarding carbon emissions and supply-chain sustainability,” said Mads Faerk, Head of Sales, MAN Energy Solutions Norway. “Decarbonizing vessels in the offshore wind sector has great potential and methanol-ready vessels, which can be converted from running on conventional fuels to methanol without the need for a major refit.”

MAN Energy Solutions’ 175D variable-speed gensets allow the vessels to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Each genset is equipped with an integrated MAN closed-loop selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system and features reduced structural and airborne noise, as well as low lube-oil consumption. The use of methanol as fuel cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 95%, NOx emissions by up to 80%, and eliminates SOx and particulate matter.

MAN 12V 175D-MEV methanol-ready engine; Image Credits: MAN Energy Solutions

“The order for the two newbuildings marks a milestone in the development of our offshore fleet. We are committed to innovating in design and technology to promote the decarbonization of the maritime industry while supporting the energy transformation and offshore wind power supply,” said Matthias Müller, Managing Director Bernhard Schulte Offshore. “MAN's 175D engine design is notable for its flexible use of various fuel grades, including biofuel, and its suitability for dual-fuel methanol retrofits.”

The MAN 175D engine range has been developed to supplement and complete the company’s maritime sector product portfolio. Available in cylinder variants of 12, 16, and 20, the engine has a power output range of 1,500 - 4,400 kW and is optimized for propelling ferries, offshore support ships, tugs, and other working vessels.

“MAN Energy Solutions’ commitment to decarbonization focuses not only on future fuels but also on the environmental footprint of the engines itself,” said Florian Keiler, Head of High Speed, MAN Energy Solutions. “From optimizing lube-oil consumption to maximizing oil-change intervals between overhaul, the MAN 175D engine achieves the lowest total cost of ownership. We congratulate BS Offshore and Ulstein on this project and are looking forward to working closely with them in executing it. This first order for MAN 175D DNV-approved, fuel-ready engines proves MAN Energy Solutions commitment to support the marine industry transition into sustainable fuels.”