In the FME NTRANS User Case 3, we explore the challenges around the "chicken or egg" problem in developing maritime hydrogen value chains in Western Norway.
This event is limited to members of Ocean Hyway Cluster and partners in FME NTRANS
Background
Hydrogen is currently developed as a solution for the more energy-intensive voyages in coastal shipping in Western Norway. However, hydrogen innovation in shipping is yet in an early phase. The first hydrogen vessel in Norway is planned to enter into operation in 2021.
A key additional challenge for hydrogen solutions, in comparison to implementing for example battery-electric vessels, is the lack of adequate hydrogen production and distribution infrastructure. While also further technological development is necessary, a challenge around hydrogen vessels is therefore the "chicken or egg problem" between supply and demand of hydrogen. Large-scale carbon-free hydrogen production does not yet exist, distribution infrastructure is largely absent, and bunkering is not yet available in ports. This may discourage shipping companies to invest in hydrogen-powered vessels. Conversely, lack of hydrogen vessels (and other use for carbon-free hydrogen) means that there is yet limited demand, which discourages investments in hydrogen production and distribution. This negative feedback loop between supply and demand creates uncertainty for organizations regarding hydrogen as a solution to decarbonize coastal shipping, creating a key obstacle for hydrogen innovation. Moreover, also other challenges remain, e.g. regarding dividing the financial risk of the first maritime hydrogen pilots.
Topic
In this User Case 3 of FME NTRANS we aim to create a better understanding of these challenges, and explore possible solutions that may be addressed by public and private actors. We ask: what are the key challenges in forming maritime hydrogen value chains in Western Norway, and how these challenges may be alleviated?
We seek to provide answers to these questions in discussions in two workshops during the spring of 2021. The results will be summarized in a research note (5-10 pages).
The workshops will take place in Teams, and will be recorded. The invitee list will be updated: if you have suggestions for further workshop participants, please contact Tuukka Mäkitie (contact info below).
The workshops and presentations are in Norwegian, but contributions in English are also welcome. The research note will be in English.
Program
1st Workshop, Thursday 15 April, 12.00-14.00:
Introduction to the themes and the case, identification of challenges, and discussion of solutions
12.00-12.10: Tuukka Mäkitie, SINTEF Digital, Dep. Technology Management. Introduction and the purpose of the workshop
12.10-12.25: Markus Steen, SINTEF Digital, Dep. Technology Management. The role of value chain development in hydrogen vessel innovation, and the role of policy.
12:25-12:40: Mark Purkis, Ocean Hyway Cluster – Hub for Ocean. The current state of maritime hydrogen value chains in Western Norway.
12.40-12.55: Tore Olderkjær Solheimslid, Vestland County Council. Challenges in building hydrogen value chains in Vestlandet.
12.55-13.00: Break
13.00-13.50: Discussing the challenges and policy topics - 50 mins: all workshop participants
What are the main identified challenges in building maritime hydrogen value chains?
How may these challenges be addressed by both industry and public actors? What has already been done?
13.50-14.00: Tuukka Mäkitie, SINTEF Digital, Dep. Technology Management. Summary, and steps forward
We wish you all welcome to this first workshop!
