The global maritime industry wants to transition towards environmental sustainability. Hyundai joined the efforts with an investment in fuel cell technology for cruise ships. More specifically, the company focuses on Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) systems. According to Hyundai, SOFCs are efficient and reduce emissions.
Leading this effort is HD Hyundai, a South Korean industrial group known for its expertise in shipbuilding and hydrogen innovation. According to Portnews, it has three key affiliates: HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HD Europe Research & Development Center, and HD Hydrogen.
HD Hyundai formalized a Joint Development Project (JDP) agreement with DNV, a global classification society, and TUI Cruises, a prominent European cruise operator.
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The integration of fuel cell technology, particularly SOFCs, offers various benefits for cruise ships and extends across the maritime industry. It addresses both environmental priorities and operational efficiencies.
Advantages of Fuel Cell Technology for Maritime Transport
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are advanced energy systems that combine hydrogen and oxygen to make electricity, without burning fuel. Because the chemical process doesn’t use combustion, it minimizes harmful emissions, like carbon dioxide and air pollutants. According to scientists, the hydrogen they use can come from different sources, such as natural gas or ammonia. This allows flexibility in how the system is fueled. Additionally, SOFCs can reuse the heat they generate.
According to AInvest, this capability helps vessels comply with increasingly strict international regulations that aim to substantially reduce emissions.
Fuel cell technology offers operational advantages beyond environmental benefits. It notably improves onboard conditions for both passengers and crew. Unlike conventional diesel engines, fuel cell propulsion systems operate with significantly lower noise and vibration levels.
This results in a quieter, more stable environment that enhances passenger comfort and reduces physical strain on crew members. This quieter operation also contributes to reduced noise pollution in marine environments. Furthermore, fuel cells can provide clean, efficient power for a ship’s auxiliary needs when docked.
Like most energy innovations, this venture comes with challenges. Most notably, the high upfront costs and the lack of hydrogen infrastructure. However, Hyundai aims to offset these hurdles with its waste heat recovery and carbon capture integration.
“This international joint development project marks a significant milestone in demonstrating HD Hyundai’s world-class decarbonization technology for ships in the European market,” an HD Hyundai representative said. “We hope to lead the maritime decarbonization initiative through our low-carbon, high-efficiency fuel cell technology.”
