Case Studies

In-depth analysis and technical deep-dives into hydrogen maritime technology, economics, and implementation strategies.

Economics & Analysis


Comparing the Energy Costs of Hydrogen, Ammonia, and Green Methanol

📅 January 1, 2026
⏱️ 8 min read

A comprehensive cost analysis of three key marine fuel alternatives derived from green hydrogen. This study breaks down the economics of compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, ammonia, and green methanol, examining how hydrogen pricing impacts delivered energy costs.

Key Topics:

  • Energy density comparison: H₂ (33.3 kWh/kg) vs NH₃ (5.17 kWh/kg) vs Methanol (5.53 kWh/kg)
  • Cost per kWh delivered at different H₂ price points (€4, €6, €8/kg)
  • Efficiency considerations: fuel cells (50%) vs combustion engines (40%)
  • Impact of liquefaction costs on hydrogen economics (+25% for LH₂)
  • CO₂ pricing effects on green methanol production costs
Bottom Line: While hydrogen offers superior energy density, ammonia and methanol provide cost advantages and easier handling. At €4/kg H₂, compressed hydrogen delivers the lowest cost per kWh at €0.24, but methanol at €0.29 offers practical storage benefits.


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Technical Guide


What Shipowners Should Know About Transitioning to Hydrogen

📅 January 1, 2026
⏱️ 15 min read

A comprehensive technical guide for shipowners navigating the transition to hydrogen propulsion. Covers everything from fuel storage options and safety considerations to regulatory frameworks and implementation strategies.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Hydrogen Forms: Compressed (350-700 bar), liquefied (-253°C), and carriers (ammonia/methanol)
  • Storage Requirements: 7.18 m³ of CH₂ or 4.73 m³ of LH₂ replaces 1 ton HFO
  • Technology Options: Fuel cells vs. ICE engines, efficiency trade-offs
  • Regulatory Landscape: IMO targets, EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime, subsidy programs
  • Cost Analysis: Green H₂ at $4-6/kg, equipment costs (~€1,500/kW for fuel cells)
  • Implementation Strategy: Feasibility studies, retrofit vs. newbuild decisions
Bottom Line: Hydrogen transition requires careful planning across technical, regulatory, and economic dimensions. Early adopters positioning now will maintain competitive advantage as decarbonization mandates tighten post-2030.


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Why Read Our Case Studies?

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Data-Driven Analysis

Every case study is backed by real numbers, technical specifications, and industry data. No marketing fluff, just actionable insights.

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Technical Depth

Written by a naval architect with hands-on experience in maritime hydrogen technology. We go beyond surface-level coverage.

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Practical Application

Each study provides concrete takeaways for shipowners, engineers, and decision-makers evaluating hydrogen adoption.

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Industry Context

Understand how hydrogen fits into the broader decarbonization landscape, including regulatory drivers and market trends.

Topics Covered in Our Case Studies

Fuel Economics
Storage Solutions
Regulatory Compliance
Technology Comparison
Safety Analysis
Infrastructure Development
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Implementation Strategy
Vessel Design
Market Trends

Upcoming Case Studies

We’re continuously researching and analyzing the latest developments in hydrogen maritime technology. Future case studies will cover:

  • MF Hydra Operations Analysis: Real-world performance data from the world’s first liquid hydrogen ferry
  • Fuel Cell Manufacturer Comparison: Side-by-side technical and economic analysis of maritime fuel cell systems
  • Bunkering Infrastructure Requirements: What ports need to support hydrogen vessels at scale
  • Retrofit vs. Newbuild Economics: Detailed cost-benefit analysis for existing fleet operators
  • Hydrogen vs. Methanol vs. Ammonia: Complete lifecycle comparison for different vessel types

Have a topic you’d like us to cover? Email us at hello@hydrogenshipbuilding.com

Stay Updated

New case studies are published regularly as the hydrogen shipping sector evolves. Follow our updates to stay informed on the latest technical analysis and industry insights.