Indonesia, a nation of thousands of islands, relies heavily on interisland ferry transport. However, traditional ferries powered by fossil fuels contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. In a move to align with its National Hydrogen Roadmap and Net Zero Emission Roadmap, the country is embarking on a feasibility study for hybrid hydrogen and battery-powered ferry systems.
Led by the National Energy Agency (NEA) and HDF Energy, and supported by GIZ under the International Hydrogen Ramp-Up Program (H2Uppp), the project aims to deliver a technical and financial blueprint for clean, scalable, and reliable maritime transport.
A Step Towards Sustainable Interisland Transport
The feasibility study focuses on the use of green hydrogen combined with battery storage to power ferries connecting Indonesia’s many islands. This hybrid approach promises to cut maritime emissions drastically while ensuring the same level of service reliability.
The project aligns with Indonesia’s hydrogen strategy for maritime transport, which officially begins in 2030, but stakeholders believe that starting now will accelerate progress. With support from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the findings are expected to serve as a reference for similar clean transport initiatives in the region.
Strategic Partnerships and Previous Commitments
HDF Energy has already made strategic moves to accelerate hydrogen adoption in Indonesia. In early 2025, the company signed agreements to develop Renewstable hydrogen power plants in the country.
Additionally, its local subsidiary, PT HDF Energy Indonesia, signed an MoU to explore maritime decarbonisation through green hydrogen. According to Atiek Puspa Fadhilah, Advisor for GIZ Indonesia, the maritime sector’s needs and Indonesia’s energy transition goals are closely linked. She emphasised that solutions for small island ferry transport could not only serve Indonesia but also inspire projects globally.
Indonesia’s exploration of hybrid hydrogen and battery-powered ferries represents a forward-thinking approach to decarbonising maritime transport. By starting work well ahead of the 2030 hydrogen strategy timeline, the nation positions itself as a leader in sustainable ferry systems for small islands.
The project’s outcomes could influence not only Indonesia’s domestic transport sector but also set a precedent for clean maritime innovation in other island nations.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: OFFSHORE ENERGY
