Methanol for power generation

ADI evaluated methanol as a power‑generation fuel by comparing turbine retrofit requirements, fuel handling needs, and emissions performance against diesel and LNG. The analysis relied on levelized cost of electricity models alongside OEM input on combustion performance and operational limitations. Results focused on small‑ to mid‑scale plants where gas access or emissions compliance posed challenges.

The client

Power producers and OEMs

The situation

Operators needed cleaner fuel options where gas access or emissions compliance were constrained.

ADI’s contributions

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Cost and LCOE modeling

Built comparative LCOE models across fuels.

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OEM engagement

Incorporated turbine OEM retrofit feasibility input.

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Infrastructure compatibility

Assessed retrofit requirements using liquid‑fuel infrastructure.

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Market applicability

Identified plant sizes and regions suited to methanol use.

Key outcomes

  • Defined where methanol competes economically with diesel and LNG.
Client Results
ADI was very responsive in providing a clear and detailed report on the methanol supply chain in the Texas Gulf Coast area. They have a unique ability to dig deep into a topic and provide value at all levels of an organization.
Krishna Punwasi Chemicals Marketing Manager, Air Liquide

Industry experience

Methanol catalyst market entry strategy

ADI Analytics conducted a methanol catalyst market assessment to support a global specialty chemicals manufacturer in evaluating market entry opportunities. The client A global specialty chemicals manufacturer exploring entry into the methanol synthesis catalyst market. The situation The client sought a detailed understanding of methanol market drivers, competitive dynamics, and alignment with its existing portfolio […]

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Methanol contracting and pricing strategy

ADI Analytics helped a leading methanol producer develop best practices for methanol sales and offtake contracts based on a survey of customers and their procurement practices, contracting strategies, and pricing structures. The client A leading methanol producer was interested in refining their sales, offtake, and pricing contracts and strategies based on industry best practices. The […]

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Ammonia and CCUS technology market assessment

This study examined the global ammonia (NH3) value chain and CO2​ conversion landscape, evaluating the technical maturity of steam methane reforming (SMR), autothermal reforming (ATR), and electrolysis-based production. ADI analyzed the economics of NH3​ as a hydrogen carrier versus liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), including the energy-intensive decomposition steps required for re-conversion. The work profiled […]

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Compact hydrogen generator commercialization strategy

This engagement assessed the commercial viability of a compact hydrogen generator (CHG) by benchmarking it against incumbent large-scale SMR and cryogenic liquid hydrogen supply chains. ADI analyzed the trade-offs between capital recovery and sourcing diversity for refiners to address rising hydroprocessing capacity needs. The client Energy technology R&D organization The situation Uncertainty regarding how small-scale […]

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Hydrogen market assessment and go-to-market strategy

ADI evaluated global hydrogen demand across high-volume refining and ammonia sectors alongside emerging small-volume applications in semiconductors and glass. The study utilized technical benchmarks for SMR and electrolysis to identify segments where on-site reliability and high purity levels (99.9999%+) justify compact reactor adoption over traditional tube trailer delivery. The client Industrial technology provider The situation […]

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Methanol plant opportunity assessment in Africa

ADI assessed the feasibility of a 5,000-mtpd export-oriented methanol plant in Africa, modeling investment economics for grey and blue production pathways. The analysis integrated steam methane reforming (SMR), autothermal reforming (ATR), and two-step reforming technologies with carbon capture retrofits to evaluate total capital requirements and internal rates of return. Uncertainty modeling addressed feedstock price volatility […]

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Small-scale methanol technology assessment

ADI performed an independent assessment of the technical and economic viability of modular methanol plants in North American shale basins. Research explored the cost arbitrage of converting flared or stranded gas into liquid chemical products across a wide range of feedstock pricing. Analysis identified critical risks in process scale-up and the competitive impact of U.S. […]

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