Hydrogen-powered support vessels unveiled

In the UK, Sea-Kit International is developing an unmanned surface vessel (USV) to be powered by a small hydrogen fuel cell from 2025.

It is using its experience of building and operating X-class USVs for surveys and new propulsion technology to introduce this concept vessel in the Thames Estuary.

Port of London Authority intends to use this vessel as a zero-emissions demonstration as part of the ZEPHR project.

Sea-Kit naval architect Chloe Fisher told Riviera Maritime Media this vessel will be built at the company’s facilities in Essex, UK, ready for remote control using redundant satellite and mobile network communications in 2025.

This 14-m H-Class uncrewed vessel will operate on the Thames for at least three years undertaking hydrographic surveys, she said.

“We will be working with Port of London to carry out surveys remotely and ensure this USV can handle currents and tides in the estuary,” Ms Fisher explained.

During the vessel design process, Sea-Kit looked at the hullform and different operational requirements, then various general arrangements and sequencing, seakeeping and manoeuvring, and the location of the fuel tanks. It incorporated the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency, designers, operators and builders in the project.

It also worked with Lloyd’s Register (LR), which awarded Sea-Kit approval under the unmanned marine systems code in 2021 and worked with LR on risk-based certification for alternative fuels.

Ms Fisher said the design includes compressed hydrogen gas tanks on the deck, a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell of less than 200 kW capacity and two 60-cm very small aperture terminals for satellite communications between the vessel and the UK-based remote control centre.

“Our client base is interested in this USV,” she said. “It is about taking the first steps, using a diverse team and challenging the norms. Lessons from this project can be used for other projects.”

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