Case Studies
In-depth analysis and technical deep-dives into hydrogen maritime technology, economics, and implementation strategies.
Comparing the Energy Costs of Hydrogen, Ammonia, and Green Methanol
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.
- 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
What Shipowners Should Know About Transitioning to Hydrogen
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.
- 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
EMSA H-SAFE Study: Comprehensive Safety Requirements for Hydrogen-Fuelled Ships
The most comprehensive safety investigation ever conducted for hydrogen as marine fuel. DNV’s multi-year study for the European Maritime Safety Agency delivers systematic hazard identification, reliability analysis, and prescriptive guidance that forms the technical foundation for IMO regulations and industry standards.
- Safety Philosophy: Why hydrogen requires fundamentally different approach than IGF Code’s natural gas systems
- Design Requirements: Secondary enclosures for all leak sources, substantial leak design basis, ignition probability assumptions
- System Configurations: Preferred approaches for compressed H₂ (fixed tanks with inerted TCE) and liquefied H₂ (complete secondary enclosures)
- Reliability Data: Equipment failure rates, leak frequencies (~1 event/10 years for 4-tank system), detection system limitations
- Cryogenic Hazards: LH₂ vacuum insulation loss cascade—air liquefaction, oxygen enrichment >50%, structural embrittlement
- Human Factors: 50% of hydrogen accidents involve organizational/human errors—SMS and training are non-negotiable
- Regulatory Framework: EMSA Guidance structure (20 chapters), IMO Interim Guidelines comparison, bunkering gaps
Why Read Our Case Studies?
Data-Driven Analysis
Every case study is backed by real numbers, technical specifications, and industry data. No marketing fluff, just actionable insights.
Technical Depth
Written by a naval architect with hands-on experience in maritime hydrogen technology. We go beyond surface-level coverage.
Practical Application
Each study provides concrete takeaways for shipowners, engineers, and decision-makers evaluating hydrogen adoption.
Industry Context
Understand how hydrogen fits into the broader decarbonization landscape, including regulatory drivers and market trends.
Topics Covered in Our Case Studies
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.