Guidelines for Safe Development of Liquefied Hydrogen Bunkering Systems

The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released a new report providing guidelines and safety considerations for developing liquefied hydrogen bunkering systems and procedures. The report emphasizes the potential of hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel to meet the IMO’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships by 2050. It acknowledges the challenges associated with bunkering hydrogen as both a marine fuel and maritime cargo, including design implications and limitations.

One key point highlighted by MTF is the unique properties of hydrogen, such as its very low temperature when liquefied, which require different bunkering arrangements compared to liquid natural gas (LNG). The bunkering process for hydrogen will be more complex, as nitrogen cannot be present in the piping systems to prevent freezing and clogging. Additionally, vessel-specific procedures and crew training will be essential for safe bunkering operations.

The report stresses the importance of updating Safety Management Systems to address the additional safety aspects of liquefied hydrogen bunkering. These guidelines have been submitted to the IMO Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 10) for consideration. Alf Tore Sørheim, Acting Director General of Shipping and Navigation at the Norwegian Maritime Authority, highlights the significance of these guidelines in advancing safer bunkering operations in the absence of international standards for bunkering liquefied hydrogen. The report aims to provide recommendations and a framework for developing bunkering requirements in the industry.

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