PowerCell, a Swedish fuel cell company, has secured a SEK 40 million contract to supply two innovative hydrogen-powered bulk carriers with zero-emission systems. Set to deliver 14 Marine System 225 units by 2027, these vessels will be powered entirely by renewable hydrogen, marking a historic step toward sustainable shipping and climate action.
The Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF) has launched innovative training frameworks for seafarers operating ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen-powered ships. These publicly accessible frameworks aim to guide regulators in developing training programs and certification schemes, addressing the diverse needs of both entry-level and senior officers in the maritime industry.
The successful adoption of hydrogen and ammonia in maritime transport relies on regulatory clarity, advanced technology, vessel design adaptations, and skilled crews. Collaboration across the industry is crucial. Current regulations do not encompass these fuels, necessitating a risk-based approval process to ensure safety and facilitate integration into maritime operations.
Hydrogen, whether green or not, is criticized for its lower energy density compared to traditional maritime fuels. Despite challenges in storage and transportation, the environmental benefits drive interest in hydrogen as a maritime fuel. Innovations aim to improve energy density and make hydrogen a sustainable choice for the industry’s future.
Japan recently launched its first hydrogen dual-fuel tug as part of the “Zero Emission Ships Project” sponsored by The Nippon Foundation. The vessel, equipped with a high-power output hydrogen dual-fuel internal combustion engine and a large-capacity high-pressure hydrogen gas storage system, aims to maintain operational performance while using hydrogen fuel.
A new project led by Dutch innovation company (NIM) with government support aims to develop the world’s first zero emission general cargo ship powered by liquid hydrogen. The H2estia project involves a consortium of maritime and technology companies to design and demonstrate this sustainable vessel for transporting bulk goods in the North Sea.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the manufacturing of a 1 MW electrolyzer by L&T for a green hydrogen plant at Kandla’s DEENDAYAL Port Authority. This project, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aims to establish Kandla as a green hydrogen hub, ultimately scaling capacity to 10 MW by 2025.
Shipowners are seeking ways to extend vessel life while meeting IMO decarbonization goals. Lomar Shipping’s lomarlabs is collaborating with Newlight to create hydrogen retrofits for ships, allowing diesel engines to use a hydrogen blend. This innovative approach could cut fuel use by up to 30%, with pilot installations set for summer 2025.
VINSSEN, a leader in maritime decarbonization technology, has received Approval in Principle certification for Korea’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered tugboat. This achievement, in collaboration with KRE, showcases a major step towards reducing emissions in the maritime industry. The innovative propulsion system combines fuel cell and battery technology for efficient and sustainable operations.
Dutch maritime engineering company NIM and Swiss high-tech firm EH Group have joined forces to advance hydrogen fuel cell drive trains for maritime vessels. This partnership aims to develop and standardize fuel cell systems tailored to the unique needs of the maritime industry, promoting sustainable energy transition and global decarbonization goals.
Energy Observer, backed by the EU’s Innovation Fund, is developing the world’s largest liquid hydrogen-powered cargo ship. The project, EO2, received €40 million to design a 160-meter containership with a 1,100 TEU capacity. The goal is to create the most eco-friendly cargo ship, with plans for commercial operations in 2029.
Enova has dedicated 65 million euros to five hydrogen projects for maritime fuel solutions in Norway, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 200,000 tonnes annually. This investment will increase hydrogen production capacity to 100 MW by 2022, supporting the transition to cleaner shipping. Enova’s focus on zero-emission technologies signals a commitment to sustainable sea transport.
Hyundai’s HD Hyundai is making significant investments in hydrogen fuel cells to strengthen its position in the shipping industry. By establishing a new division, HD Hydrogen, and acquiring a majority stake in a Finnish company, the company aims to tap into the growing market for hydrogen fuel cells and electrolysis technologies. Initial focus will be on stationary power generation, followed by applications in the marine fuel cell market.
Anglo-Eastern and Windcat, in partnership with CMB.TECH, are set to manage Windcat’s fleet of dual-fuel hydrogen-powered CSOVs. This collaboration enhances Anglo-Eastern’s technical consulting services in the offshore industry. The agreement involves overseeing the construction of six CSOVs at Damen Shipyards for Windcat Offshore, focusing on energy commissioning and services. The vessels aim to reduce emissions and offer sustainable solutions for offshore operations.
Efforts to create the world’s first clean containership for ocean voyages, utilizing wind power and hydrogen fuel cells, are progressing with Veer Voyage. The innovative vessels are designed for speed and efficiency, with a focus on sustainability. Financing and partnerships are in place to bring these zero-emission ships to the seas by 2027.
