- Corvus Pelican Fuel Cell System receives DNV Type Approval for safety and performance.
- Combines Toyota’s fuel cell technology with maritime-specific design.
- First vessel with the system will soon sail for zero-emission operations.
Corvus Energy has reported that its Pelican Fuel Cell System, developed through the H2NOR project, has received DNV Type Approval, marking a significant step towards zero-emission shipping. The system, featuring nitrogen-inerting technology for enhanced safety, will be used on the first vessel, MS Skulebas, allowing it to operate for four days emission-free. The fuel cell system combines proven technology with maritime-specific designs, aiming to further maritime decarbonization.
Corvus Pelican Fuel Cell System Receives Type Approval
Corvus Energy’s Pelican Fuel Cell System has been awarded Type Approval by DNV, confirming that it meets the stringent safety and performance standards required for maritime use. This achievement marks an important milestone for the company and the future of zero-emission shipping.
Developed Through the H2NOR Project
The Pelican Fuel Cell System was developed as part of the H2NOR project, which spanned three years.
It is the first fuel cell system designed to be inherently gas-safe, making it one of the safest available on the market.
Innovative Safety Features
Olaf Drews, Head of Engines & Pressurized Equipment Maritime, noted that the Pelican system uses nitrogen for inerting the fuel cell space, providing an extra layer of safety. He said, “It is a special fuel cell system, because the Pelican uses nitrogen for inerting of the fuel cell space. It is the first fuel cell system that uses this technology and this brings it to a very preferred safety level. This is a milestone, and we look forward to the first ship project.”
A Step Toward Net Zero Shipping
Fredrik Witte, CEO of Corvus, said, “Toyota`s unsurpassed knowledge in developing high-quality and efficient fuel cells, in addition to the strong collaboration and high level of maritime experience among the partners in this development project, has been key. This is a milestone for net zero shipping. We now have a high-quality range extender to add to our existing ESS portfolio with the scalability and the safety needed to be a real driver in the future of marine decarbonization.”
Proven Technology from Toyota
The fuel cell module used in the Pelican system is a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell from Toyota, which has already been proven in over 30,000 cars worldwide. Thiebault Paquet from Toyota Hydrogen Factory Europe said, “DNV Type Approval demonstrates that Toyota fuel cell technology is transferable to the marine sector and is a viable solution to support maritime decarbonization efforts.”
Integration with Ship Systems
The Corvus Pelican Fuel Cell System is designed to integrate seamlessly with maritime ship systems.
It optimizes power distribution between the fuel cell and energy storage systems using a real-time advisory system called Corvus CoPilot, enhancing performance and extending the system’s lifetime.
Digital Solutions for Energy Efficiency
Corvus is also developing robust digital solutions like Corvus CoPilot for real-time energy efficiency, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
This ensures better performance and longevity for both the fuel cell system and the ship’s energy storage systems.
First Vessel Equipped with the System
The first Corvus Pelican Fuel Cell System will be installed on MS Skulebas, a 35-meter fishing and training vessel operated by Måløy Upper Secondary School in Norway. With the addition of the fuel cell system and hydrogen storage, the vessel will be able to operate for four days on zero emissions.
By combining battery systems and hydrogen-powered fuel cells, the Corvus Pelican Fuel Cell System represents a major advancement in maritime technology, helping the shipping industry move toward a more sustainable, zero-emission future.
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Source: Corvus Energy
