In a bold move to decarbonize the offshore energy sector, Japanese engineering powerhouse MODEC has teamed up with Samsung E&A and UK-based Carbon Clean to deploy cutting-edge carbon capture technology on floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units. This groundbreaking collaboration marks the first-ever integration of modular carbon capture systems in an offshore maritime environment, setting a new standard for sustainable energy production.
A Game-Changer for Offshore Carbon Capture
MODEC’s partnership with Samsung E&A and Carbon Clean focuses on retrofitting FPSOs with Carbon Clean’s innovative CycloneCC technology. This modular system is designed to capture carbon emissions post-combustion, a first-of-its-kind application for operating FPSOs. What makes CycloneCC stand out? Its compact design is up to 50% smaller than traditional carbon capture solutions, making it uniquely suited for the confined spaces of floating vessels.
Koichi Matsumiya, MODEC’s Chief Technical Officer, emphasized the dual goals of this initiative: “We aim to provide stable energy with minimal greenhouse gas emissions while preparing for a future where alternative energies take center stage. Carbon Clean’s technology is pivotal in achieving both objectives.”
Why CycloneCC is a Maritime Marvel
Carbon Clean’s CycloneCC technology isn’t just compact—it’s revolutionary. The system leverages rotating packed bed (RPB) technology, which reduces the unit’s height by 70% compared to conventional column-based systems. This design not only improves performance under the dynamic conditions of a floating vessel but also slashes costs, making it a commercially viable solution for widespread deployment across FPSO fleets.
Aniruddha Sharma, Chair and CEO of Carbon Clean, highlighted the significance of this project: “Onboard carbon capture is essential for decarbonizing offshore oil and gas operations. Our modular CycloneCC technology is 10x smaller than traditional systems, making it ideal for maritime settings. Its scalability ensures it can be replicated across fleets at a fraction of the cost.”
A Vision for a Greener Future
This pilot project is a key component of MODEC’s Vision 2034 plan, which aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions from its FPSO operations. If successful, the next phase could involve scaling up the CycloneCC technology for commercial use across MODEC’s global fleet.
The timing couldn’t be more critical. Just this week, MODEC’s state-of-the-art FPSO Bacalhau arrived in Brazil, where it will operate in Equinor’s Bacalhau field. Capable of producing 220,000 barrels of oil per day, this vessel represents the future of offshore energy—efficient, innovative, and increasingly sustainable.
Cheon Hong Park, Executive Vice President at Samsung E&A, summed up the project’s importance: “This initiative aligns with our mission to tackle societal challenges through technology. It’s a milestone for the marine industry and a testament to what collaboration can achieve.”
