Tag: fuelcell

Yanmar’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Earns DNV Approval

Another milestone in fuel cell development for maritime, after reporting on earlier developments. This time for a very well known Japanese brand in propulsion: Yanmar. If they can apply the same rigor in their fuel cell offering as their engines this is a very promising development. Finally ship owners can choose fuel cells from a well-known maritime supplier.

Pioneering Sustainable Maritime Solutions

Yanmar Power Technology has achieved a significant milestone. Their GH320FC Maritime Hydrogen Fuel Cell System received Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV, a leading classification society.

Source: Yanmar

Modular design

The GH320FC is designed for easy installation across various vessels. Its modular design allows multiple units to connect in parallel, meeting diverse power needs. This flexibility makes it ideal for coastal ferries, inland cargo ships, and port service vessels, especially in Europe’s low-emission zones.

The power output is 300 kW which bring the fuel cell into the larger segment, which is required for shipping’s multi-megawatt.

European decarbonization

Eric Tigelaar, Yanmar Europe’s Commercial Marine Department Manager, emphasized the system’s role in providing sustainable energy solutions. Masaru Hirose, General Manager at Yanmar Power Technology, highlighted its contribution to European decarbonization goals, building on successful deployments in Japan.

DNV’s Olaf Drews praised the system’s potential in achieving zero-emission operations. He noted that fuel cells with renewable fuels offer efficient, scalable power solutions for the maritime industry’s future.

This approval marks a pivotal step toward cleaner maritime operations. Yanmar’s innovation aligns with global efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainable energy in marine transport.

April 12, 2025

Comparing LT-PEM Hydrogen Fuel Cells for Maritime Use

Over the last months several fuel cells have reached approval milestones from classification societies. This is very encouraging to see as this clear a large hurdle to maritime applications. This article compares the LT-PEM fuel cells currently available for maritime use.

LT-PEM fuel cells

Hydrogen fuel cells are becoming the go-to technology for zero-emission maritime propulsion. Among these, low-temperature proton exchange membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cells are particularly suited to shipping. They’re compact, modular, and efficient.

Below table gives an overview of the relevant fuel cells for maritime applications.

Manufacturer	Model	Rated Power	Dimensions (L×W×H)	Inlet Hydrogen Pressure	Class Approval	Commercial Use Status	Notable Projects
Ballard Power (Canada)	FCwave™	200 kW (modular)	1209×741×2195 mm	3.5–6.5 bar(g)	DNV, LR, ABS (Type Approval)	In operation	Norled MF Hydra, H₂ Barge 2, Zulu06
Vinssen (S. Korea)	60 kW Stack (120 kW system)	60 kW per stack (120 kW system)	Compact (N/A)	Low-pressure (N/A)	RINA (Type Approval)	Approved, demo ongoing	Vinssen demo vessel, KR AiP tug
Hanwha Aerospace (S. Korea)	200 kW Marine PEMFC	200 kW	N/A (prototype)	5–7 bar (expected)	DNV/KR (AiP)	AiP granted, not yet deployed	Integration with Hanwha Ocean
TECO 2030 (Norway)	FCM400	400 kW per module	Containerized (N/A)	5–8 bar	DNV (AiP)	AiP granted	HyEkoTank, ZEAS projects
PowerCell Sweden	Marine System 225	225 kW	1200×900×2000 mm	3–8 bar(g)	DNV/LR compliance (pending Type Approval)	Deliveries underway	Italian shipbuilder, cruise ships
Nedstack PemGen 300 (Netherlands)	PemGen® 300	~825 kW (3×275 kW)	Installed in vessel hold (N/A)	0.3–6 bar(g)	Lloyd’s Register	In operation	H₂ Barge 1 (Rotterdam-Antwerp)
Nedstack PemGen 600 (Netherlands)	PemGen® 600	600 kW (740 kW peak)	6060×2440×2900 mm (20′ container)	0.3–6 bar(g)	BV (AiP)	AiP granted	Available for inland/coastal vessels
Cummins/Hydrogenics (USA)	Hydrogenics HD	360 kW total	Installed onboard (N/A)	Regulated from 350 bar	US Coast Guard approved	In operation	Sea Change ferry (California)
EODev (France)	REXH₂®	70 kW per module	1710×1060×1020 mm	5–7 bar(g)	BV (Type Approval)	Type Approved, deployments upcoming	PROMETEO catamaran, Energy Observer
Corvus Energy (Norway)	Pelican Fuel Cell	340 kW (4×85 kW)	2160×1427×2320 mm	5.4–14 bar(g)	DNV (Type Approval)	Type Approved, prototype phase	Short-sea vessels, ferries (planned)
EH-Group (Swiss)	EH TRACE-M250	250 kW	Compact (N/A)	Low-pressure (N/A)	DNV (AiP)	AiP granted	Maritime applications
Genevos (France)	HPM-250	250 kW	1400×800×1800 mm	>2.5 bar(a)	BV (AiP)	AiP granted	Nordics ferry project, workboats

Let’s take a closer look at some of the leading LT-PEM hydrogen fuel cell solutions available for maritime applications.

Proven and In-Service Solutions

Several manufacturers already have fuel cells operating commercially at sea.

Ballard Power Systems leads with its FCwave™, a 200 kW module scalable to megawatt levels. The FCwave™ received type approval from DNV, Lloyd’s Register, and ABS. It’s in active use aboard vessels like the Norled MF Hydra, the world’s first liquid hydrogen ferry. Other deployments include H₂ Barge 2 and the Zulu06 inland vessel.

Nedstack from the Netherlands offers the PemGen® 300, delivering around 825 kW through multiple stacks. It powers the H₂ Barge 1, an inland container vessel servicing Rotterdam and Antwerp since 2023. Nedstack’s modular approach provides flexibility for retrofitting existing vessels. After running in financial difficulties in 2024 Nedstack was taken over by German Freudenberg.

Cummins (Hydrogenics), with its 360 kW system, powers the Sea Change ferry in California. The system secured approval from the U.S. Coast Guard, highlighting its reliability for passenger transport.

Fuel Cells with Type Approvals

Other fuel cell systems have gained recent class approvals, signaling readiness for commercial deployment.

South Korea’s Vinssen earned RINA type approval in 2025 for its 60 kW stacks (assembled into 120 kW systems). Vinssen’s systems are ideal for smaller vessels, harbor tugs, and ferries. A demonstration vessel is already underway.

Norway’s Corvus Energy developed the 340 kW Pelican fuel cell pack, based on Toyota modules. It achieved DNV type approval in 2024. Corvus targets short-sea shipping and ferries, promising rapid adoption in Northern Europe.

France’s EODev secured Bureau Veritas type approval for its modular 70 kW REXH₂® unit. The system’s first marine installation is set for the PROMETEO catamaran, emphasizing flexibility and scalability.

Systems Nearing Commercial Deployment

Other players hold Approval in Principle (AiP) from classification societies, signaling they’re close to commercial rollout.

Hanwha Aerospace from South Korea holds AiP from DNV and Korean Register for its 200 kW marine PEMFC. Hanwha targets larger commercial vessels and integration with ammonia-to-hydrogen solutions.

TECO 2030 of Norway has DNV AiP for its powerful 400 kW FCM400 module. Unfortunately current status of this development is unclear due to the filing for bankruptcy of the company.

PowerCell Sweden developed the Marine System 225, optimized at 225 kW per module. Already selected for cruise ships and commercial orders, full type approval is expected soon.

Genevos from France has an AiP for its compact 250 kW HPM-250. Its modular design suits smaller workboats, ferries, and offshore vessels.

EH-Group from Swiss has an AiP from DNV for the 250 kW EH-Trace-M250 unit since 2024. The unit has a high power density which makes it well-suited for multi-MW applications.

Why It Matters

LT-PEM fuel cells are a critical piece of maritime decarbonization. With type approvals and commercial projects expanding, these systems offer proven, certified solutions. Shipowners can now confidently adopt hydrogen propulsion technology.

In the coming years, expect rapid growth in zero-emission maritime vessels. LT-PEM fuel cells are leading this charge, delivering reliable, scalable, and emission-free energy at sea.

March 23, 2025

Vinssen Earns RINA Type Approval for Marine Fuel Cell
After Hanwha last week, there is news from South Korean companies reaching an important milestone for their fuel cell technology. We need these developments to increase uptake of hydrogen in shipping.

Vinssen reaches milestone

South Korea’s Vinssen just reached a big milestone. Their 60 kW hydrogen fuel cell system received type approval from classification society RINA. This brings the company one step closer to the commercialization of their 120 kW maritime fuel cell.

Compact, Clean, and Certified

The system runs on proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology. Vinssen developed it with Bumhan Fuel Cell. It’s compact, modular, and built for marine use.

Source: Vinssen

RINA’s approval confirms the system meets safety and performance standards. That opens the door for use in small commercial vessels, ferries, and harbor craft.

Proven Tech from a Hydrogen Pioneer

Vinssen already made headlines with Hydrogenia, South Korea’s first hydrogen-electric vessel. Now, with this certification, the company can scale up its clean energy push.

The RINA stamp also gives shipowners more confidence. It shows that hydrogen tech from Asia is gaining serious ground in a global market.

Specs at a Glance
- Fuel Cell Type: PEM
- Rated Output: 60 kW
- Fuel: Compressed hydrogen
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled
- Setup: Modular, scalable
- Target Use: Small vessels, ferries, harbor craft
- Approval: RINA, March 2025
Why This Matters

Modular fuel cells like this are key to maritime decarbonization. They’re clean, quiet, and easy to install in smaller hulls. As regulations tighten, certified systems will drive adoption.

Vinssen’s 60 kW unit might be small. But it’s a smart step toward a bigger, cleaner future on the water.
March 22, 2025
Hanwha Aerospace Gains DNV Approval for Marine Fuel Cells

It is very obvious that more class approved fuel cells are needed to develop hydrogen-powered ships. Currently the number of available maritime fuel cells is very limited. Therefore this milestone by Hanwha Aerospace is a step in the right direction. This follows on news of another type approval earlier this year.

Certification

Hanwha Aerospace has achieved a significant milestone. The company received Approval in Principle (AIP) from DNV for its 200 kW hydrogen fuel cell system designed for maritime use.

This certification confirms the system’s safety and compliance with international regulations during the basic design phase. It builds upon a previous approval from the Korean Register of Shipping (KR).

Source; Hanwha Aerospace via Linkedin

Dong-jo Oh, Executive Director of Hanwha Aerospace, stated that this certification validates their hydrogen fuel cell technology at the highest global standards for safety and performance. He emphasized the company’s commitment to collaborating with Hanwha Ocean to target the global zero-carbon vessel market and help the maritime industry reduce carbon emissions.

Full scale marketing

With this approval, Hanwha Aerospace is set to begin full-scale marketing and sales of its maritime hydrogen fuel cells. The company also aims to secure type approval for its polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology, enhancing its competitiveness in the zero-carbon propulsion systems market. Plans are underway to further develop and commercialize this solution for various marine vessels, from commercial ships to specialized maritime applications.

Ammonia

In June 2024, Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Ocean, KR, and ammonia power solutions company Amogy signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement focuses on technical collaboration and certification for applying ammonia reformers and ammonia fuel cell systems to ships. Previously, Hanwha Ocean agreed to purchase Amogy’s ammonia-to-electrical power system, which includes Hanwha Aerospace’s hydrogen fuel cell system.

These developments position Hanwha Aerospace at the forefront of eco-friendly marine solutions. The company’s efforts contribute significantly to the maritime industry’s goal of achieving zero-carbon emissions.

March 15, 2025
EODEV Achieves Industry Milestone with Type Approval for REXH2 Fuel Cell System
In order to develop hydrogen powered ships we need more development in the different building blocks like the fuel cells. Earlier this month I reported about the Ricardo fuel cell system achieving almost 400 kW output. Now it is great to see that EODEV has obtained Type Approval for its REXH2 fuel cell system. This development fits nicely with EO’s container ship project. The platform is based on the Toyota fuel cell technology. Personally, I have concerns about using automotive technology in shipping, however EODEV surely has taken this into consideration.

A Major Step for Maritime Hydrogen Adoption

The REXH2 fuel cell system, developed by Energy Observer Developments (EODEV), has now achieved Type Approval from Bureau Veritas, a leading classification society. This certification validates the system’s compliance with international safety and performance standards, making it easier for shipbuilders and operators to integrate hydrogen propulsion into new and existing vessels.

Source: eo-dev.com

Type Approval is a critical process that ensures maritime systems meet stringent regulations before deployment. This milestone means that the REXH2 is recognized as a safe and reliable solution for zero-emission marine power, significantly reducing regulatory hurdles for adoption in commercial shipping, passenger ferries, and even superyachts.

The REXH2: A Proven Solution for Clean Marine Power

The REXH2 is a modular hydrogen fuel cell system designed for maritime applications, offering a scalable and efficient alternative to diesel generators. It has been rigorously tested in real-world conditions aboard the Energy Observer, a pioneering hydrogen-powered vessel that has demonstrated the viability of fuel cell propulsion on long-distance journeys.

Key features of the REXH2 include:
- Modularity – The system can be configured to meet various power demands, making it suitable for different vessel types.
- Zero Emissions – Producing only water and heat as byproducts, the REXH2 aligns with global decarbonization goals.
- Compliance with IMO Regulations – The certification supports the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in shipping.
Implications for the Hydrogen-Powered Shipping Industry

The certification of the REXH2 represents a major leap forward for hydrogen-powered vessels. Until now, the maritime industry has faced significant challenges in adopting hydrogen fuel cells due to regulatory uncertainties and a lack of standardized certification frameworks. With this approval, shipowners and naval architects can integrate hydrogen propulsion with greater confidence, accelerating the transition to clean energy.

This achievement also reinforces EODEV’s position as a leader in maritime hydrogen technology. By securing Type Approval, the company has set a benchmark for other hydrogen fuel cell manufacturers, fostering innovation and investment in the sector.

Future Prospects

For naval architects, shipbuilders, and operators exploring zero-emission solutions, the REXH2 is now a certified and viable option. With increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets, this certification is a game-changer for the future of maritime hydrogen propulsion.
February 23, 2025
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.

Source: Ricardo.com

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.
February 6, 2025
New Hydrogen Ship Discoveries: January 2025

Over the past month, I have discovered several hydrogen-powered shipbuilding projects that highlight the growing adoption of this sustainable fuel in the maritime industry. These projects span diverse vessel types, from research ships to inland barges and innovative catamarans. From now on I will follow these projects and keep you informed about them. Below is a summary of these four notable developments.

Lithuania’s First Hydrogen-Powered Ship

Lithuania has launched its first hydrogen-powered vessel, a pioneering step for the Baltic region. Developed by KN Energies in partnership with Port of Klaipėda, this vessel is designed for port operations and logistical support. The ship is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system, combining hydrogen fuel cells with battery storage to optimize efficiency. This marks a significant milestone for Lithuania’s decarbonization efforts in the maritime sector, demonstrating a shift toward cleaner port activities.

Source: Port of Klaipeda

Beyond its environmental benefits, the vessel’s design focuses on operational flexibility. The hybrid system allows it to adapt to varying power demands while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By incorporating hydrogen, the port aims to set an example for future projects, aligning with the European Union’s broader clean energy initiatives. This development reinforces the role of hydrogen in coastal and port applications, paving the way for further regional investments in green maritime technologies.

Hydrogen-Hybrid Coastal Research Vessel

The Scripps Institution of Oceanography has initiated the shipyard selection process for a groundbreaking hydrogen-hybrid Coastal Class research vessel. This ship, part of a broader initiative to decarbonize oceanographic research, will be equipped with hydrogen fuel cells supplemented by battery storage, ensuring near-zero emissions during operations. The vessel’s design focuses on silent, low-impact propulsion, which is crucial for scientific studies that require minimal interference with marine ecosystems.

Source: Glosten

A key advantage of this hydrogen-hybrid configuration is its extended operational range, allowing researchers to conduct long-duration missions without relying on fossil fuels. By pioneering hydrogen adoption in research fleets, Scripps sets a precedent for academia and government agencies looking to transition to sustainable marine technologies. This project represents a major step toward reducing the environmental footprint of scientific exploration at sea.

Rhenus Hydrogen-Powered Coupled Barges

Logistics giant Rhenus is making a bold move with the introduction of 70 cleaner coupled barges, incorporating hydrogen-based propulsion. These vessels will serve European inland waterways, significantly cutting emissions in a sector that has long relied on diesel engines. With hydrogen fuel cells providing the primary energy source, these barges represent a major leap forward for sustainable inland shipping, a critical component of Europe’s transport network.

Source: Rhenus Group

By replacing conventional engines with hydrogen-powered systems, Rhenus aims to align with EU regulations targeting emissions reductions in inland waterways. The project underscores the potential for hydrogen in large-scale commercial applications, proving that clean energy solutions can be economically viable. If successful, this fleet could set a precedent for similar initiatives across Europe, transforming inland shipping into a low-emission alternative.

Prometeo: Europe’s First Hydrogen-Electric Catamaran

French company Green Navy has introduced Prometeo, the first hydrogen-electric catamaran in Europe. Designed for passenger transport and leisure applications, this vessel operates entirely on hydrogen fuel cells, producing zero emissions. The catamaran’s design emphasizes efficiency, with lightweight materials and streamlined hulls to maximize performance. As a result, it offers a practical alternative to diesel-powered vessels in coastal and inland waters.

Source: Green Navy

Prometeo showcases the potential for hydrogen-electric propulsion in the leisure and transport sectors, where sustainability is becoming an increasing priority. The vessel’s development highlights France’s commitment to green maritime technology, potentially inspiring other shipbuilders to follow suit. As hydrogen infrastructure continues to expand, vessels like Prometeo may become more commonplace, helping to decarbonize the wider maritime industry.

Four more exciting project to follow

These four projects demonstrate the accelerating pace of hydrogen adoption in maritime applications. From inland barges to oceanographic research vessels, hydrogen is proving to be a viable alternative to fossil fuels, driving innovation across multiple segments of the industry. As more shipbuilders and operators commit to hydrogen, the path to a cleaner maritime future is becoming increasingly clear.

February 2, 2025
EU grants hydrogen vessels
Very pleased to see the EU Innovation fund specifically supporting three projects developing vessels operating on hydrogen. Ponant enables environmental friendly cruising with a very interesting mix of technologies. Samskip continues their venture into hydrogen vessels after already ordering the Sea Shuttles. While the original Energy Observer get is much larger container-carrying sister.

In November 2023, the European Commission announced the recipients of the EU Innovation Fund 2023, dedicating substantial grants to pioneering projects aimed at decarbonizing the maritime industry. Among the notable beneficiaries are:

Ponant’s SWAP2ZERO Project
- Grant Amount: Not publicly disclosed.
- Project Overview: Ponant, a French luxury cruise operator, is developing the world’s first transoceanic vessel targeting carbon neutrality.
- Key Features:
  - Wind Propulsion: A sail power system providing up to 50% of the vessel’s propulsion energy.
  - Solar Energy: Approximately 1,000 square meters of eco-friendly photovoltaic panels.
  - Fuel Cells: Integration of both low-temperature and high-temperature fuel cells for propulsion and hotel load needs.
  - Carbon Capture: Onboard technology to capture and reuse CO₂ emissions.
- Operational Target: Aiming for zero CO₂ emissions during operation with one month of autonomy.
- Planned Launch: The vessel is expected to be operational by 2030.
Samskip’s HydroShuttles
- Grant Amount: Funding details not publicly disclosed.
- Project Overview: Samskip, a leading logistics company, is developing hydrogen-powered short-sea vessels designed for efficient, clean coastal transport.
- Key Features:
  - Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Utilization of advanced fuel cell technology for propulsion.
  - Scalable Hydrogen Storage: Innovative storage solutions to support extended operations.
- Impact: Aiming to reduce emissions in regional trade routes, showcasing the viability of hydrogen for short-sea shipping applications.
Energy Observer 2 (EO2)
- Grant Amount: €40 million from the EU Innovation Fund.
- Project Overview: Building upon the success of the original Energy Observer, EO2 is a 160-meter liquid hydrogen-powered container ship.
- Key Features:
  - Fuel Cell Capacity: Equipped with 4.8 MW of fuel cells developed by EODev in partnership with Toyota.
  - Cargo Capacity: Capable of carrying up to 1,100 TEU containers.
  - Range: Designed for a 1,600 nautical mile route over 14 days.
- Operational Target: Scheduled for commercial operation by 2029 on Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts.
- Environmental Impact: Projected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 112,250 tonnes over ten years, equivalent to the annual absorption of 190,000 mature trees.
January 2, 2025
China Launches Hydrogen-Powered Inland Container Vessel
Just when you wonder why China is not exploring the potential of hydrogen as fuel for inland barges, news drops of the first vessel being launched already.

China has taken a major step in advancing zero-emission maritime technology with the launch of its first large hydrogen fuel cell-powered inland container vessel, the Dong Fang Qing Gang. This innovative vessel highlights China’s commitment to reducing emissions from its inland shipping sector while exploring the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Key Features of Dong Fang Qing Gang
- Hydrogen Fuel Cells: The vessel is equipped with two 240 kW hydrogen fuel cells developed by Sinosynergy, marking the company’s entry into high-power maritime applications.
- Hydrogen Storage: Its storage system holds 550 kg of hydrogen, enabling a range of approximately 235 miles.
- Hybrid System: A lithium battery complements the hydrogen power system for increased efficiency.
- Specifications: The vessel measures 64.9 meters, displaces 2,000 tons, and has a capacity of 64 TEU (equivalent to approximately 1,450 tons).
Launched in Zhejiang Province on December 18, 2024, the vessel is set to undergo outfitting and testing, with commercial operations between Zhapu port (Jiaxing) and Xiasha port (Hangzhou) beginning in 2025.

A Global Perspective: Dutch Innovations in Hydrogen Barges

China’s Dong Fang Qing Gang reflects a growing global interest in hydrogen-powered inland shipping. The Netherlands, a leader in maritime innovation, has been pioneering similar solutions:
1. Nobian’s Hydrogen Barge: Developed for the transport of salt and chemicals, the Antonie leverages hydrogen fuel cells to achieve emissions-free operation.
2. Future Proof Shipping’s FPS Maas: Retrofitted with hydrogen fuel cells, the FPS Maas is already operational, showcasing the viability of hydrogen in commercial inland shipping.
3. Condor H2 Hydrogen Container Swapping: This innovative Dutch system simplifies refueling by enabling hydrogen containers to be swapped seamlessly, ensuring minimal downtime and increased operational flexibility.
Significance of Hydrogen-Powered Vessels

Both the Dutch and Chinese initiatives underline the potential of hydrogen as a scalable, sustainable energy source for maritime transport.

The launch of Dong Fang Qing Gang and similar projects around the world underscore the transformative potential of hydrogen in revolutionizing inland and coastal shipping.

Categories: containership, inland
December 29, 2024
Ferry Hydra pioneering LH2

a pioneering zero-emission passenger ferry powered by liquid hydrogen.

Delivery

In June 2021, the ferry Hydra was delivered from Westcon Yards AS to Norled AS in Stavanger, Norway. Designed by LMG Marine AS, Hydra is the world’s first passenger ferry capable of using hydrogen as fuel. It operates alongside the battery-powered ferry Nesvik on the Hjelmeland–Nesvik–Skipavik route.

Fuel cells and batteries

Hydra utilizes liquid hydrogen stored on board to power two hydrogen fuel cells, which continuously charge a large battery pack. The batteries can also be charged dockside at Hjelmeland and Nesvik. The ferry is designed to operate on fuel cells driven by liquid hydrogen for at least 50% of its operating time. Additionally, two diesel generators are installed as backup power sources.

Norwegian party

The construction of Hydra involved significant contributions from Norwegian suppliers, including LMG Marin in Bergen, Vestnes Ocean in Florø, Westcon Power & Automation in Haugesund, and AF Aeronmollier in Flekkefjord/Stavanger. In total, 18 Norwegian suppliers and exporters participated in the project, enhancing domestic value creation and supporting the maritime export industry. Export Financing Norway provided guarantees totaling up to 460 million NOK for these environmentally friendly ferry projects.

Hydra is classified by DNV GL with the following notations: 1A Car Ferry B Battery (Power) E0 LC R4(Nor). The propulsion system features Schottel’s Rudder Propeller SRE 340 L FP. Main generators are Scania DI16 75M models, with Stamford HCM634G2 generators (480-553 kW), all supplied by Nogva Motorfabrikk. Westcon Power & Automation provided and installed the battery system.

Deck equipment includes anchor winches and capstans from Adria Winch, a Marine Evacuation System (MES) and liferafts from Survitec, and an RSQ 450 G MOB boat from Palfinger. Lighting solutions, including searchlights, floodlights, navigation lights, and both exterior and interior technical lighting, were supplied by Glamox.

Additional systems comprise ventilation and air conditioning from Novenco, comprehensive e-SEAmatic Blue system integration (including EMS, integrated bridge, IAS, and EPMS) by Westcon Power & Automation, navigation equipment installed by Vico, and CCTV provided by Ocean Electronics.

Milestone

The delivery of Hydra marks a significant milestone in the advancement of zero-emission maritime transport, showcasing innovative use of hydrogen fuel technology in passenger ferry operations.

December 22, 2024