Imagine a giant ship that runs on hydrogen instead of heavy oil, like a massive version of a hydrogen car. It uses a specially designed engine that can switch between hydrogen and biomethane to keep the ship moving across oceans for weeks. This setup cleans up the air by removing almost all the soot and smog usually left behind by big ships.
Long-distance shipping cannot use batteries or fuel cells due to energy storage and reliability needs. This creates a gap in decarbonizing the largest ocean-going vessels.
A 17.6 MW hydrogen-capable internal combustion engine, a fuel supply and blending system, and an exhaust gas aftertreatment solution.
If you are a cruise ship operator dealing with strict emission laws — this project developed a 17.6 MW hydrogen engine that allows for 100% CO2 reduction. This helps you avoid millions of tons of emissions while maintaining the power needed for long voyages.
If you are a shipyard dealing with the demand for green vessels — this project developed a certifiable hydrogen power plant and fuel blending system. By installing this on 10% of cruise ships on orderbooks, you can help avoid 6.5 million tons of CO2 over 10 years.
If you are a port operator dealing with the safety risks of new fuels — this project developed a standardisation blueprint and training materials for hydrogen. This ensures your staff can safely handle zero-carbon fuel bunkering for large vessels.
The technology is being demonstrated on a large 24,000 GT vessel with a total installed capacity of 17.6 MW.
Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost figures for the engine and fuel systems are not provided.
Based on available project data, the project focuses on creating a 'Made in Europe' technology with replication studies for commercialisation, but specific licensing terms are not listed.
The project runs from 2026 to 2030, with a goal to contribute to decarbonisation beyond 2030.
The project includes the development of bespoke certifiable ship crew and port operator training materials to ensure safe integration.
The consortium is heavily industry-driven, with 9 industrial partners representing 56% of the 16 total members. This strong industrial presence, combined with 5 universities and 1 research center across 7 countries, suggests a high focus on commercial viability and technical deployment rather than pure academic research.
Contact Vaasan Yliopisto in Finland for technical specifications.
Contact SciTransfer to connect with the H4PERION industrial partners for early adoption.
