Ballard & ABB approved for high-power fuel cell concept to power ships
by CM Staff
Ballard says the high-power fuel cell unit will support the energy needs of multi-megawatt scale vessels with diverse use cases.
Ballard Power Systems Inc. (CNW Group/Ballard Power Systems Inc.)
VANCOUVER — Ballard Power Systems and ABB have received approval in principle (“AiP”) from DNV for a jointly developed fuel cell concept capable of generating 3 megawatts, or 4,000 HP, of electrical power.
DNV is an international accredited registrar and classification society headquartered in Høvik, Norway.
Ballard says the high-power fuel cell unit will support the energy needs of multi-megawatt scale vessels with diverse use cases.
For example, a cruise vessel operating in coastal areas could either run entirely on zero-emission fuel cell power or switch to it when operating in environmentally sensitive areas or emission control zones, while a ferry with a regular schedule and frequent bunkering opportunities could operate solely on fuel cell power.
For ocean going vessels, fuel cell power could support auxiliary needs. The concept of the solution also envisions the integration with an energy storage system.
“ABB’s industry-leading experience in marine solutions and Ballard’s expertise in development and deployment of megawatt-scale fuel cell systems for land-based use has proven to be the right combination, enabling us to take the next step in our joint efforts to make this technology available for larger vessels,” said Jesper Themsen, President and CEO of Ballard Power Systems Europe A/S in a statement.
“Securing an AiP offers a signpost to the maritime industry regarding the potential of this truly transformative concept.”
