Why hydrogen?

Hydrogen is an energy carrier that can provide carbon-free fuel and thus play a crucial role in the maritime industry’s journey towards decarbonization. Many maritime applications fall into «gaps» where electricity (batteries) cannot easily or economically replace fossil fuels – an unfeasibly large and heavy battery would be required. In that case, hydrogen and other hydrogen-based fuels such as ammonia, can be an option.

Hydrogen can be stored and transported, and the vessel type and usage are - amongst others– the key factors which decide which hydrogen (based) fuel is required. Hydrogen can be stored in three ways:

1. As a compressed gas in high-pressure tanks.

2. As a liquid (stored at -253°C).

3. As a solid by either absorbing or reacting with metals or chemical compounds or storing in an alternative chemical form.

Colours of hydrogen

Depending on the type of production used, different colours are assigned to the hydrogen. The most common are:

• Grey hydrogen: Most common form today, generated from natural gas or methane, through steam reforming.

• Blue: Produced from fossil fuels, but most of the CO2 emissions are captured and stored/utilized elsewhere.

• Green: Produced from renewable energy sources such as hydro, wind or solar. In an electrolyser, water is separated in hydrogen and oxygen without any CO2 emissions.

 Hydrogen value chain

What does it take for a boat to run without emissions?
Click on the plus symbol to learn more about the process - from hydrogen production to the zero-emission boat.