Ballard Power Systems has delivered two 200-kW fuel-cell modules to power a hydrogen-powered ferry operated by Norled
The FCwave fuel cell modules will be installed aboard MF Hydra, the world’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry, which can carry up to 300 passengers and 80 cars. It is due to sail on the triangular route between Hjelmeland-Skipavik-Nesvik in Norway later this year.
Norled chief technical officer Erlend Hovland said, “This is a pioneering project. It represents a significant turning point for both Norled and the rest of the maritime sector. We believe hydrogen will play a significant role in the future of zero-emissions ships.”
The ship has received approval from the Norwegian Maritime Directorate, the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning and class society DNV.
The FCwave modules have been designed, manufactured and tested at Ballard’s Centre of Excellence in Hobro, Denmark. The two marine fuel-cell modules have been approved by DNV, confirming their design conforms to recognised marine industry quality and safety standards and regulations, as well as international conventions.
Ballard Power Systems general manager marine Søren Østergaard Hansen said these modules will demonstrate “that hydrogen fuel cells are out of the starting blocks and on the way to lead in zero-emissions technologies for the marine industry.”
“Through the experience gained in projects with Norled and other marine partners, we have taken a big step towards the goal of receiving the official type-approval from DNV, which will certify the FCwave has met the functional, design, documentation and safety requirements necessary for global marine commercialisation.”
The push for more emissions-friendly ships is accelerating due to regulations. The Norwegian Government has introduced legislation to bring about zero-emissions cruise ships and ferries operating in the country’s Fjords by no later than 2026, as part of a larger goal goal of culling emissions from domestic shipping and fishing vessels by 50% as soon as 2030.
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