Ricardo’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell Module Hits 393 kW – Why This Matters

Ricardo recently achieved a high net power output of 393 kW. This is substantially higher then TECO 2030’s fuel cell and almost double that of Powercell’s largest unit. This matters, because we need an increase in power density to power larger ships with hydrogen.

Ricardo has successfully achieved a net power output of 393 kW with its hydrogen fuel cell module, marking a major milestone in clean energy technology. This high power capacity is crucial because it enables fuel cells to replace conventional diesel engines in demanding applications such as heavy-duty transport, marine vessels, and industrial power generation.

Why High Capacity Matters

Hydrogen fuel cells are a promising alternative to fossil fuels, but their adoption depends on meeting the power and reliability standards of existing combustion engines. A 393 kW output means that a set of Ricardo’s fuel cell modules can provide enough power for large-scale applications, including:

• Heavy-duty trucks and buses – Ensuring long-haul transportation can operate on hydrogen without sacrificing performance.
• Marine vessels – Many ships require high power output into multi-Megawatts for propulsion and auxiliary systems, making fuel cells a viable solution for emissions reduction.
• Industrial and backup power – Hydrogen fuel cells with high output can serve as reliable, zero-emission alternatives to diesel generators.

A Step Toward Decarbonization

By reaching this performance benchmark, Ricardo demonstrates that hydrogen fuel cells are not just for small-scale applications but can drive major industries toward net-zero emissions. The higher the capacity, the more competitive hydrogen becomes against traditional combustion engines, pushing the world closer to a sustainable energy transition.

This breakthrough strengthens the case for hydrogen as a key player in heavy transport and industrial power, accelerating its adoption in sectors that have been difficult to decarbonize. Ricardo’s success marks another step toward a future where clean, high-performance energy solutions become the norm.