Fuel cell technology powering up at speed

Despite a slow start, fuel cells are likely to feature prominently in shipping’s multi-fuel future. They are already in operation on short-haul ferries, coastal vessels, and some workboats, but larger systems for oceangoing vessels trading internationally are still under development.

Experts engaged in fuel cell technology development, believe their deployment in ocean trades is inevitable, and that as the technology develops, these systems will soon become another emissions-free power option for large vessels.

In Europe, there is an attempt to take the next step with the Rotterdam-based Samskip planning to introduce two new 135m container ships powered by liquid hydrogen (LH2) fuel cells on its Rotterdam-Oslo green corridor by 2027.

The two ‘SeaShuttles’, currently under construction in Cochin shipyard in India, will each be fitted with hybrid power systems combining