- World’s Lowest-Carbon Cargo Ship to Launch by 2029.
- EO2 Secures €40 Million EU Funding for Sustainable Shipping.
- European Innovation Fund Backs Groundbreaking Maritime Decarbonization Project.
Energy Observer, through its subsidiary EOConcept, launched the Energy Observer 2 (EO2) project in 2022 to build the world’s most low-carbon cargo ship. The innovative project brings together advanced engineering and cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize maritime transport using low-emission solutions, reports Hydrogen Central.
European Recognition and Financial Backing
The EO2 project has received €40 million from the European Union Innovation Fund, selected from 85 proposals in one of the EU’s largest calls for projects. The €4.8 billion initiative spans 18 countries and focuses on decarbonizing challenging sectors such as industry, mobility, and carbon management. EO2 aligns with the fund’s objective to reduce emissions by 476 million tonnes of CO₂ over the next decade, contributing to Europe’s technological autonomy and environmental goals.
Collaborative Partnerships Driving Innovation
The success of Energy Observer 2 relies on strategic partnerships. The Accor Group provided early seed funding, in alignment with its decarbonization initiatives, in particular, Silenseas, a large sailing ship powered by LNG and sailing rigs under the Orient Express brand.
Such key partners as CMA CGM Group, Air Liquide, Toyota, EODev, LMG Marin, Bureau Veritas, Dassault Systèmes, and Chart Industries carried out two years of feasibility studies on the optimal techno-economic model to define the technical and logistical solutions required to realize the vision for EO2.
Design and Impact of EO2
The Energy Observer 2 is a 160-meter container ship capable of shipping 1,100 TEU containers with a range of 14 days at 1,600 nautical miles. Its electric propulsion will be powered by 4.8 MW of fuel cells developed by EODev and Toyota.
In 2029, EO2 will begin commercial operations focusing on the Atlantic and Channel coasts of Europe. In ten years, it is expected to cut CO₂ emissions by 112,250 tonnes, the same amount that would be absorbed by 190,000 mature trees. The key challenge for this revolutionary vessel is its demonstration of the commercial viability and economic feasibility of liquid hydrogen in maritime transport on short segments, putting Europe at the forefront of the energy transition.
The Hydrogen Infrastructure
As a success prerequisite for EO2, it will be necessary to develop an efficient liquid hydrogen bunkering port ecosystem. EOConcept and Chart Industries are working on building the required infrastructure toward a cost-effective solution for shipowners.
Being supportive of this cause, Brittany and Normandy regions are establishing liquid hydrogen as a competitive as well as available maritime fuel. Their commitment highlights regional collaboration as indispensable in more easily spearheading these sustainable maritime technologies.
Leading the Energy Transition
The Energy Observer 2 project inspires how innovation, collaboration, and environmental commitment are changing maritime transport. By pioneering the use of liquid hydrogen as a new energy fuel, EO2 is shaping the future of shipping for Europe, while positioning Europe on the world stage for decarbonizing its industry.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Hydrogen Central
