Containerised fuel cell system on OSV Coastal Liberty
Hydrogen fuel cells are slowly making their way into shipping (Source: eCap Marine)
Operating in the German Wadden Sea, the vessel’s retrofitted system, certified by DNV in February 2024, consists of a hydrogen-electric energy system developed by eCap Marine, featuring two 200 kW Ballard FCwave fuel cells, a maritime battery from Lehmann Marine, and advanced safety features.
The containerised system allows the Coastal Liberty to run entirely on hydrogen and batteries, eliminating tank-to-wake emissions. eCap Marine designed the scalable system to meet the demands of larger commercial vessels and inland shipping, signalling a shift towards clean maritime technology.
The hydrogen fuel is produced locally from offshore wind power at an electrolyser plant near the vessel's berth, enabling sustainable energy sourcing. Swappable high-pressure tank systems allow for easy and safe refuelling.
Jochen Kaufholt, CEO of Offshore Service Gesellschaft, called the Coastal Liberty a flagship for Europe’s maritime energy transition.
