PowerCell Group, based in Sweden, has been awarded a contract valued at approximately SEK 50 million (around £3.9 million) to provide fuel cell systems for two new cargo vessels. These ships, ordered by Norwegian LH2 Shipping AS, will operate on liquid hydrogen and are intended for shortsea routes within the North Sea. The contract specifies the delivery of 4 MW of installed power, utilizing PowerCell’s Marine System 225 platform, which has already received marine type approval from Lloyd's. Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2028.
This agreement also includes the intention to establish a long-term service contract, ensuring future revenue streams throughout the operational lifespan of the vessels. The adoption of liquid hydrogen as a marine fuel represents a significant step in the maritime industry's efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, this news signals a continued trend towards decarbonization in shipping. While these specific vessels are for shortsea operations, the successful implementation and scaling of such technologies could eventually influence vessel availability and routing options for longer distances. The development of a service agreement also indicates a long-term commitment to these green technologies, potentially leading to more reliable and sustainable shipping options in the future. As more vessels adopt alternative fuels, forwarders may see new opportunities for green logistics services and potentially face evolving regulatory landscapes concerning emissions.