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Category: Ship Projects

  • Revolutionizing Clean Shipping with BeHydro’s Hydrogen Engines

    BeHydro’s approach is fascinating. Their hydrogen engines combine the familiarity of combustion technology with the cleanest fuel, making them an appealing solution for shipbuilders and operators. By integrating hydrogen into a well-known engine format, they address a critical challenge: adopting new technology without overhauling existing expertise.

    BeHydro’s hydrogen engines are driving a new era in sustainable maritime transport. The Dutch government has chosen these engines for a subsidy program aimed at slashing shipping emissions. This decision highlights the Netherlands’ leadership in green shipping technology.

    BeHydro, a collaboration between ABC Engines and CMB.TECH, produces dual-fuel and hydrogen-only engines. Their products deliver power ranging from 600 kW to 2.7 MW, making them suitable for many vessel types. These engines significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, helping the maritime industry reduce its carbon footprint.

    Source: BeHydro

    The subsidy program promotes innovative technologies for cleaner shipping. With BeHydro’s engines, vessels can operate more sustainably and reduce their environmental impact.

    Hydrogen’s role in shipping continues to grow. Its ability to enable zero-emission operations positions it as a key solution for meeting global climate targets. BeHydro’s engines offer a practical way for ships to adopt this green fuel.

    This program also supports BeHydro’s expansion and cements the Netherlands’ role in maritime innovation. By focusing on cleaner technologies, the shipping industry can accelerate its transition to greener operations.

    The partnership between BeHydro and the Dutch government exemplifies how innovation and support can create lasting environmental change. Hydrogen engines are steering the shipping sector towards a cleaner future.

  • 2024: Record deliveries and orders

    While 2024 is generally seen as a year of delays and set-backs for industrial hydrogen projects, not so for hydrogen in shipbuilding. This year has been very eventful with a large number of hydrogen-fueled ships entering into operation(6) as well as new ships (16!) being announced, backed by subsidies from Norway and the EU. This is a very positive development, especially because these newly publicized vessels are significantly larger in size and power requirement.

    Many vessels delivered

    In 2024 a large number hydrogen vessels entered into operation, which clearly demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen as fuel. Among those vessels are the following.

    • Project 821, the Feadship superyacht on liquid hydrogen. See details here.
    • Hydromer dredging vessel, though awaiting the hydrogen installation on deck
    • Coastal Liberty with a hydrogen system for auxiliary power on deck.
    • H2 Barge 2, the next inland vessel of Future Proof Shipping.
    • Zulu 06 another inland barge on hydrogen.
    • Hydrocat 55, another crew transfer vessel of Windcat.

    Enova enables more project of zero-emission ships

    This year Enova, Norway’s state enterprise dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly energy solutions, significantly advanced the maritime sector’s transition to zero-emission vessels through substantial funding initiatives.

    In June, Enova announced its largest-ever funding allocation within the maritime transport sector, committing NOK 1.2 billion to support the development of ammonia and hydrogen-powered vessels. Then in December the next funding round was announced with two more hydrogen vessels.

    The beneficiaries to develop the 11 more hydrogen ships are:

    • Maris Fiducia five hydrogen-powered dry-bulk vessels.
    • Halten Bulk: two dry bulk vessels.
    • Napier: two general cargo ships.
    • Møre Sjø: live fish carrier.
    • Cruise Service: two hydrogen-powered passenger vessels.

    Equally important, in a separate funding round, Enova granted EUR 65 million to five hydrogen production projects aimed at supplying fuel for ships.

    And so does the EU

    On 22 October results of the 2023 EU Innovation Fund call were announced. 85 innovative net-zero projects were selected to receive grants of a total €4.8 billion. A small part of this went so shipping projects to demonstrate the feasibility of sailing on liquid hydrogen.

    • Swap2Zero Ponant’s cruise ship project with liquid hydrogen for auxiliary power
    • Samskip’s HydroShuttles two liquid hydrogen-powered containerships.
    • Energy Observer 2 a 1,100 TEU containership on liquid hydrogen.

    More information will be made available on this site’s ships page.

    The awarded EU Innovation Fund grants will also support a number of industrial developments of hydrogen infrastructure in compressed and liquid state to support the maritime industry. More details on that later in this blog.

    On a slightly smaller scale but equally important, the Dutch Maritime Masterplan has also awarded subsidies to a few hydrogen shipbuilding projects just before the end of 2024. However these have not yet been publicly announced.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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  • December 2024 Norway subsidy results

    Hydrogen Projects score poorly in Norway’s latest Zero-Emission Vessel Funding

    Norway’s recent allocation of approximately $108 million to 14 zero-emission vessel projects underscores its commitment to sustainable maritime solutions. However, it’s notable that only two hydrogen-powered vessels received funding, despite numerous applications in this category.

    Among the projects awarded, Cruise Service AS secured the subsidy for two hydrogen-powered passenger vessels. Details are not known.

    The limited support for hydrogen initiatives is concerning, given hydrogen’s potential to revolutionize maritime transport, particularly in shortsea shipping. By not capitalizing on the opportunity to fund a broader range of hydrogen projects, Norway may be missing a chance to lead in this transformative technology.

    It’s encouraging to note that Enova plans to hold additional funding rounds, with the next call for hydrogen and ammonia programs anticipated at the end of the first quarter of 2025. This presents an opportunity to reassess and potentially increase support for hydrogen-based maritime solutions in future allocations.

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  • 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.

    Norled's MF Hydra

    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.

  • Superyacht 821 on LH2

    Superyachts often waste engineering resources on gadgets like underwater elevators and mobile helidecks. It provides bragging rights to the owners but does nothing to advance the shipbuilding industry. Not so for Project 821. Building a multi-megawatt fuel cell system with liquid hydrogen storage in a closed environment is relevant for the entire shipbuilding industry. An engineering feat to be proud of.

    Project 821 is a groundbreaking superyacht launched by Dutch shipyard Feadship on May 4, 2024. Spanning 118.8 meters, it holds the distinction of being the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered superyacht, marking a significant advancement in sustainable shipbuilding since the delivery of the first LH2-fuelled ferry Hydra.

    feadship project 821 launched

    Innovative Green Technology

    Project 821 employs green hydrogen to generate emission-free power for both propulsion and onboard amenities. This zero-diesel approach allows the yacht to operate silently and without emissions for up to a week while at anchor or cruising at 10 knots, significantly reducing its environmental impact.

    A key challenge in the yacht’s development was the safe storage of liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures (-253°C). Feadship addressed this by installing a double-walled cryogenic storage tank capable of holding approximately 4 tons of hydrogen. Additionally, the fuel cells can utilize methanol, offering flexibility in fuel sources.

    Design and Luxury Features

    Designed by British studio RWD, Project 821 seamlessly integrates luxury with cutting-edge technology. The yacht features five decks above water and two below, with 14 deploying balconies, five shell doors, and seven significant opening platforms—the most hull openings of any Feadship to date. These elements create a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience for guests.

    Liquid hydrogen installation

    MAN Cryo, a division of MAN Energy Solutions, supplied the liquid-hydrogen gas-fuel supply system, marking the first installation of such technology on a superyacht. Their scope encompassed the 92 cubic meter vacuum-insulated type C tank, a tank connection space with essential process equipment like vaporizers and control valves, a bunker station for shore-to-ship bunkering, control and automation systems , a vent mast, and interconnecting hydrogen piping.

    This innovative system stores hydrogen in liquid form, then evaporates and heats it to supply gaseous hydrogen to the fuel cell system, enabling the vessel’s zero-emission propulsion. MAN Cryo collaborated with Lloyd’s Register to develop a risk-assessment-based design approved for below-deck placement—a pioneering achievement in marine liquid-hydrogen projects.

    Technical Specifications

    • Length Overall: 118.8 meters (389’9″)
    • Beam: 19 meters (62’4″)
    • Draft: 5.25 meters (17’3″)
    • Propulsion: 2 x 3,200 kW ABB azimuthing thrusters
    • Power Supply:
    • 2 x 900 kW MTU generators
    • 3 x 2,500 kW MTU generators
    • 16 x 185 kW PowerCell hydrogen generators (fuel cells)
    • Tank: 92 m3 C-type
    • Range: 6,500 nautical miles at 14 knots
    • Accommodation: Up to 30 guests in 12 staterooms, with additional cabins for 44 crew members and 2 staff members

    Market Availability

    Shortly after its launch, Project 821 was listed for sale through yacht brokerage Edmiston. While there have been rumors linking the yacht to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, Feadship has not confirmed any details regarding ownership or pricing.