Fugro vessel ready to be equipped with methanol engines

Fugro’s geophysical vessel Fugro Pioneer is ready to be equipped with methanol engines following the conversion of the main components on board.

The vessel was converted in the Netherlands as part of the Fugro-led Methanol as Energy Step Towards Emission-free Dutch Shipping (MENENS) consortium with a grant received at the end of 2021 from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

The now-completed vessel adjustments to the Fugro Pioneer allow two of its four original engines to be replaced by methanol engines, ensuring services can still be offered in regions where green methanol is not yet available, Fugro said.

The delivery and installation of the methanol-capable engines are expected in the second half of this year. 

“The methanol conversion of the Fugro Pioneer is not only a pivotal move in diminishing our vessel emissions as part of our Net Zero 2035 journey, but it also stimulates the green methanol market. We will continue to invest in innovative solutions that not only help our clients, but also support us in reaching our company objectives,” said Barbara Geelen, Fugro’s CFO.

Fugro Pioneer’s next task includes performing a geophysical survey for the development of the Doordewind offshore wind zone in the Netherlands.

The vessel conversion is part of Fugro’s journey to reach net-zero operations by 2035.

The Dutch company noted that there is an increased focus on sustainability in tenders for the offshore market, and as such for clients, which, by embracing green methanol as a fuel, are offered the opportunity to align their projects with environmental responsibility while maintaining operational efficiency.