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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Nobian’s Hydrogen Barge: Developed for the transport of salt and chemicals, the Antonie leverages hydrogen fuel cells to achieve emissions-free operation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
