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.
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.
Those involved with hydrogen project for shipping know the chicken-and-egg situation: why build hydrogen ships when there is not supply vs in order to build the infrastructure we need guaranteed long term off-take. That is why GreenH’s final investment decision (FID) is such a big deal: finally dedicated hydrogen supply hub for ships will be constructed. While simultaneously solving the problem of bunkering high volumes of compressed hydrogen into a ship. Therefore we can only respect this major green shipping milestone.
Norwegian company GreenH has secured NOK 1 billion (approximately $89 million) to develop a green hydrogen facility in Bodø. This plant will supply hydrogen the two Torghatten Nord’s ferries on the Vestfjorden route. The FID, announced on January 27, 2025, marks a significant milestone after four years of development.
Source: GreenH
Enova grant
In November 2024, Enova granted NOK 129 million (around $11.5 million) to support the Bodø hydrogen facility. This funding was pivotal in reaching the final investment decision.
Norwegian hydrogen hub
The Bodø facility will feature a 20 MW electrolyzer, capable of producing up to 3,100 tons of green hydrogen annually. Operations are slated to begin in 2026, making it the first in Northern Europe to supply pressurized green hydrogen directly to maritime vessels. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to decarbonize maritime transport. For instance, Norwegian shipyard Myklebust Verft is constructing two hydrogen-powered ferries for Torghatten Nord. Upon delivery, these vessels will be the world’s largest hydrogen-powered ships, operating primarily on the green hydrogen produced in Bodø.
Port infrastructure
Globally, ports are investing in hydrogen infrastructure to support sustainable shipping. The Port of Seattle is exploring green hydrogen to power port operations and fuel vessels. Similarly, the Hamburg Green Hydrogen Hub plans to start building its electrolysis plant in 2025, aiming to decarbonize the port and surrounding industries. These developments underscore the maritime industry’s commitment to reducing emissions through innovative hydrogen solutions.
In my previous post I explained how the Energy Observer 2 is a new milestone for hydrogen powered vessels. This post analyzes a typical operation for such vessel across European ports in an assumed schedule and evaluates its potential benefits from Fuel EU Maritime.
Operational Snapshot
The vessel operates between key European ports on the west coast:
Port
Distance (nautical miles)
Port Moves
Waiting Time (hours)
Maneuvering Time (hours)
Hamburg
405
600
2
2
Antwerp
252
500
2
2
Le Havre
463
400
2
2
La Rochelle
103
200
2
2
Bordeaux
996
500
2
2
Total
2,219
2,200
10
10
Overview of EO2 trade route
Speed, Time, and Energy Calculations
The vessel operates at a service speed of 12 knots for regular operations. The journey duration and corresponding energy consumption were calculated as follows:
Total sailing days: 7.70 (12 knots)
Energy consumption during sailing: 554,750 kWh
Port energy consumption: 20,000 kWh (port waiting and maneuvering energy combined)
Based on the following assumed power ratings:
Sailing: 3,000 kW
Maneuvering: 1,500 kW
Portoperations: 500 kW
Hydrogen Fuel Usage and Emissions
With a typical consumption rate of 60 grams of LH2 per kWh for fuel cells and no further losses assumed, the vessel’s total hydrogen fuel usage per journey is 34.5 tons. Annually, considering regular operations of one round-trip every two weeks, the vessel consumes 897 tons of liquid hydrogen, or 2.5 tons per day.
Fuel EU Maritime
The Fuel EU Maritime regulations that came into force this year is meant to enforce the adoption of renewable fuels and to reward early adopters. When we consider the above amount of RFNBO hydrogen in Fuel EU maritime it demonstrates a strong over-compliance compared to requirements in 2029. This can be verified in any free online calculate like provided here.
Moreover, this over-compliance can be traded at marketplaces which came into operation this year (for example here and here). If we assume a rate of €320 per ton CO2-eq – half of the penalty rate – this give a value of €2.55 million. Or €2.85 per kilo LH2. Whether this amount itself justifies to cost of sailing on liquid hydrogen is doubtful but at least it reduced the operational cost of doing so.
A Path Forward
This analysis showcases the potential effect of Fuel EU maritime on hydrogen-powered ships across European shipping routes. As port infrastructure evolves to support hydrogen refueling, this mode of operation will become increasingly viable.
The hydrogen shipping revolution is just beginning—charting the way toward a sustainable and efficient future.
What’s your take on hydrogen-powered shipping? Share your thoughts below!
In the past week, more information became known about the largest vessel to-date to operate on liquid hydrogen: the Energy Observer 2 (EO2), a project spearheaded by Energy Observer in collaboration with partners like LMG Marin. This blog post summarizes what is known to date about this large vessel.
Introducing Energy Observer 2
Building upon the success of the original Energy Observer—a vessel that demonstrated the viability of renewable energy and hydrogen integration—the EO2 project aims to revolutionize cargo shipping. This 160-meter containership will carry up to 1,100 TEU containers, operating entirely on liquid hydrogen, thereby ensuring zero-emission voyages. Zero emission operation is scheduled to take place on a route along the west coast of Europe. This will connect major ports such as Hamburg, Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Bordeaux, offering a new green corridor on a high-traffic maritime route.
Source: LMG Marin
Key Features of EO2:
Sustainable Propulsion: Equipped with electric propulsion powered by 4.8 MW fuel cells developed in partnership with EODev and Toyota, EO2 exemplifies cutting-edge maritime technology.
Innovative Design: Two large C-type liquid hydrogen tanks located on the aft deck with a total volume of 1,000 m3.
Operational Efficiency: With a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles, EO2 is tailored for intra-continental and coastal routes. This is a sustainable alternative to traditional road transportation.
No sails: surprisingly, this latest design does not show the Oceanwings’ sails that were present in earlier designs. One possible reason for this omission is the potential interference with cargo operations(?).
Collaborative Efforts
The development of EO2 is a testament to collaborative innovation. LMG Marin, renowned for its expertise in decarbonized propulsion, is leading the ship’s design. Other key partners include Air Liquide, CMA CGM Group, Bureau Veritas, and Ayro, each contributing specialized knowledge to ensure the project’s success.
European Union’s Support
Highlighting its commitment to sustainable maritime solutions, the European Union’s Innovation Fund has awarded the EO2 project €40 million. See also this blog post.This funding should cover all green equipment cost and a significant amount of operational expense. The grant accelerates the path toward constructing and operating the world’s largest liquid hydrogen-powered cargo ship by 2029.
A Vision for the Future
EO2 is not just another ship; it’s a vision for the future of maritime transport. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering international collaboration, it aims to set a new standard for zero-emission shipping due to it’s larger scale, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
As the maritime industry navigates toward a sustainable future, projects like Energy Observer 2 illuminate the course, demonstrating that with innovation and cooperation, zero-emission shipping is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality.
The cost of green hydrogen has not gone down yet they way it should have according to predictions. This is disappointing and a risk to the maritime industry using hydrogen as fuel. However here is positive news for the longer term: golden hydrogen.
Gold hydrogen
Hydrogen is not just an energy source for the future; it’s already beneath our feet. The unseen and untapped potential of naturally occurring hydrogen, known as “gold” hydrogen, has come to light. Engineers and geologists have now mapped this hydrogen across the United States.
A groundbreaking map reveals hydrogen reserves under at least 30 U.S. states. This map is the first of its kind, showcasing regions rich in this valuable resource. Such findings could transform energy production, making it more sustainable and economically viable.
The map results from new research aimed at understanding subsurface hydrogen presence. Scientists believe that geological processes produce this hydrogen naturally. It leaks to the surface from deep within the Earth over thousands of years.
Cost effectiveness
Using this gold hydrogen could redefine renewable energy. Unlike traditional hydrogen production, which is energy-intensive, gold hydrogen is naturally available. It offers a cleaner alternative, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The key advantage is its cost-effectiveness. Tapping into these reserves could be cheaper than producing hydrogen artificially. This natural hydrogen has a lower environmental footprint, contributing to a greener planet.
Challenges ahead
Navigating challenges is essential to harness this resource. There needs to be a focus on technology development for efficient extraction. Furthermore, sustainable practices must guard against potential environmental impacts.
The discovery opens doors for renewed interest in hydrogen as a crucial player in energy strategy. By investing in research and development, the U.S. can lead global efforts in clean energy innovation.
In summary, gold hydrogen holds promise for the future of sustainable energy. With these new findings, a path to cleaner production and economic opportunity lies ahead. As the demand for alternative energy grows, the significance of such discoveries becomes ever more critical.
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.
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.
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.
This post is based on the recent Bloomberg article which highlight hydrogen challenges. The challenges mentioned align with my own experience: delayed project and high pricing present another challenge for ship owners who decided to take the leap and use green hydrogen as fuel. However, with a new round of EU Hydrogen Bank auction, Fuel EU Maritime kicking in, and more hydrogen vessel deliveries 2025 may bring positive changes.
As the European Union (EU) races towards its ambitious net-zero emissions target, hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone of its energy transition strategy. However, a closer look at hydrogen pricing reveals both the promise and the challenges of integrating this versatile fuel into Europe’s decarbonization framework.
Current Hydrogen Pricing Landscape in the EU
Green Hydrogen Costs: Today, the production costs of green hydrogen in the EU range from €3.50 to €10 per kilogram, driven by the high expenses associated with renewable energy and electrolyzer technology. Despite these challenges, BloombergNEF (BNEF) predicts that by 2050, advancements in technology and economies of scale will reduce costs to €1.50 to €5 per kilogram.
Gray Hydrogen Costs: The EU currently relies heavily on gray hydrogen, which is produced from natural gas without capturing carbon emissions. Gray hydrogen remains cheaper at €1 to €2 per kilogram, but its environmental impact is increasingly penalized by rising carbon taxes under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).
The Role of Policy and Subsidies
To bridge the cost gap between gray and green hydrogen, the EU has introduced a range of policy measures:
European Hydrogen Bank: A funding initiative aimed at scaling hydrogen production and infrastructure.
National Hydrogen Strategies: Many member states have outlined clear roadmaps for hydrogen development, focusing on industrial use and transport applications.
Despite these efforts, regulatory hurdles and delays in funding allocation are slowing the momentum. Streamlining approval processes for renewable energy projects and electrolyzer installations is essential to accelerate progress.
Overcoming Market Challenges
The EU hydrogen market faces several key obstacles:
Project Delays: High upfront costs and regulatory complexity have caused delays and cancellations of hydrogen projects across the region.
Demand Uncertainty: While sectors like steelmaking, chemicals, and heavy transport view hydrogen as critical for decarbonization, the lack of stable pricing and economic incentives has dampened immediate demand.
Infrastructure Gaps: Investments in pipelines, storage, and fueling stations remain insufficient to support widespread hydrogen adoption.
A Path Forward for Green Hydrogen
Despite these challenges, the long-term prospects for green hydrogen in the EU remain strong. The declining costs of renewable energy, combined with technological innovations in electrolyzers, position the EU to become a global leader in hydrogen production.
To achieve this, the EU must:
Expand its carbon pricing mechanisms to further discourage gray hydrogen use.
Provide greater clarity and consistency in funding for hydrogen projects.
Strengthen international partnerships to secure raw materials and share technological expertise.
Conclusion
The EU’s commitment to hydrogen reflects its broader ambition to lead the world in clean energy innovation. While the road to widespread hydrogen adoption is fraught with challenges, targeted investments and policy support can turn green hydrogen from a costly innovation into a competitive, indispensable fuel for the future.
By addressing these barriers head-on, the EU has the potential to set a global benchmark for integrating hydrogen into a sustainable energy economy.
