Hydrogen Fuel Cell Adoption in Marine Markets Gaining Momentum, as Asserted by IDTechEx
The maritime sector, responsible for approximately 2.9% of global carbon emissions, is witnessing a significant shift towards cleaner, safer energy solutions. This shift is driven by the need to avoid risks associated with traditional lithium batteries, such as thermal runaway, and to support decarbonization initiatives.
The adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in shipping markets is gaining momentum. Green fuels, such as green hydrogen and ammonia, are seen as promising solutions to reduce maritime emissions. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced new policies, including an 'Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)' and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), which are expected to become mandatory from 2023.
Leading marine fuel cell suppliers include Nedstack, Powercell, and Ballard, which are vertically integrated pure-play companies. These companies, originally involved in stationary power, heavy-duty road vehicles, and maritime battery supply, are now pivoting towards the marine fuel cell sector.
By the end of 2022, a total of 6MW will have been delivered to vessels, with most deliveries being pilot projects for fleet operators. Significant orders include a 3.2MW PEMFC system from PowerCell, a 2MW SOFC system from Alma Clean Power, and individual 2MW PEMFC orders for the H-Tug and Ulstein OSV to be delivered by Nedstack.
The average system size per vessel has now surpassed 1MW, according to IDTechEx's project database. Innovations in fuel cell technology have led to increased power density and safety, with the use of novel stainless steel plate materials, double-walled hydrogen pipes, ventilation fans, and hydrogen sensors.
Corvus Energy is another notable contender with plans to release its first FC product over the next few years using fuel cells sourced from Toyota. IDTechEx predicts that most orders in the mid-term will use PEMFC technology and remain in inland and coastal sectors, due to the volumetric limits of hydrogen.
The new IDTechEx report "Fuel Cell Boats & Ships 2023-2033: PEMFC, SOFC, Hydrogen, Ammonia, LNG" predicts that green hydrogen PEMFC and LNG/green ammonia SOFC markets will grow rapidly at 35% CAGR over a ten-year period. Liquified natural gas (LNG) vessels are the largest alternative fuel in marine markets.
Inland cargo vessels, workboats, offshore support vessels (OSVs), tugs, cruise ships, and ferries are the current end-users of fuel cell systems. Repeat orders from fleet operators are expected to drive rapid market growth in the marine fuel cell sector.
IDTechEx's research portfolio tracks the adoption of electric vehicle demand & technology trends across land, sea, and air. The focus in the maritime sector is shifting towards reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane. IDTechEx offers Research, Subscription, and Consultancy products to help businesses navigate emerging technologies and make strategic decisions.
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