Hamburg-based engineering specialist eCap Marine has secured two significant contracts to supply hydrogen-based propulsion systems for emission-free vessels, marking a notable step forward in the decarbonization of the maritime industry.
Powering Samskip’s Green Hydrogen SeaShuttles
eCap Marine has been awarded the contract to supply hydrogen-powered fuel cells for two zero-emission short-sea container vessels for global logistics provider Samskip. These vessels, named Samskip SeaShuttles, are currently under construction at the Cochin Shipyard in India and are scheduled for delivery in 2027. They are set to be the first short-sea container vessels in the world to utilize green hydrogen as fuel.
Each of the SeaShuttles will be equipped with 3.2 MW PEM fuel cells, integrated with marine-approved power electronics, controllers, and safety systems. These comprehensive hydrogen systems will be installed as containerized units on the aft deck of the vessels, demonstrating a practical and space-efficient solution for hydrogen integration.
Møre Sjø Selects eCap Marine for Emission-Free Bulk Carriers
In a separate significant order, the Norwegian shipping company Møre Sjø has chosen eCap Marine’s hydrogen solution for the construction of two emission-free, hydrogen-powered bulk carriers. These newbuilds are being constructed at Gelibolu Shipyard in Türkiye and are also slated for delivery in 2027.
Measuring 85 meters in length with a deadweight of 4,000 tons, these bulk carriers will primarily operate in Norwegian coastal waters, reaffirming Møre Sjø’s commitment to hydrogen as an environmentally friendly alternative fuel for emission-free operations in the sensitive environment of Norwegian fjords.
eCap Marine’s scope of supply for these vessels includes 1.7 MW PEM hydrogen fuel cells for each vessel, enabling emission-free transport of dry bulk goods. The compressed hydrogen tank system, with a capacity exceeding 2 tons per vessel, will be permanently installed on the aft section, while fuel cells and other electrical components will be located in suitable spaces below deck. eCap Marine’s delivery also encompasses an onboard hydrogen bunkering station, marine-approved power electronics, the controller and safety system, and all interfaces to the ship’s power management system.
Commitment to Hydrogen as the Future of Shipping
Lars Ravens, Managing Director at eCap Marine, stated, “These projects are a significant milestone for eCap Marine – and the maritime energy transition. Our team has worked with engineering enthusiasm to develop scalable hydrogen technology. Our integrated hydrogen systems are now at the core of two groundbreaking vessels.” He expressed gratitude to both Møre Sjø and Samskip for entrusting eCap Marine with these “emission-free marine propulsion lighthouse projects.”
eCap Marine distinguishes itself by taking full technical responsibility for delivering energy from hydrogen. This is a crucial differentiator in a market where few maritime suppliers are willing or able to offer such comprehensive accountability for alternative and renewable energy systems. The company’s conviction that hydrogen will be the energy source of the future for shipping drives their commitment to making this vision a reality.
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Source: Fuel Cell Works
