Tue 29 Jan 2019, 09:57 GMT

New LH2 bunker vessel design unveiled


Design for liquefied hydrogen bunker vessel developed by Moss Maritime in cooperation with Equinor, Wilhelmsen and DNV GL.


The delivery vessel has a cargo capacity of 9,000 cubic metres, where liquefied hydrogen would be stored at -253 °C.
Image credit: Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA
Moss Maritime, in cooperation with Equinor, Wilhelmsen and DNV GL, has developed a design for a liquefied hydrogen (LH2) bunker vessel.

The project, sponsored by Innovation Norway, was launched with the objective to clarify challenges and find solutions for the storage and handling of LH2 cargo and fuel on a vessel.

"Moss Maritime has utilized its long-standing experience from design of Moss LNG carriers in the development of the LH2 bunker vessel, where liquefied hydrogen at a temperature of -253 °C will offer advantages over pressurized hydrogen gas in relation to transportation costs. We are ready to support the ship industry in implementing solutions for liquefied hydrogen for future projects," said Tor Skogan, Vice President LNG of Moss Maritime.

The LH2 bunker vessel has cargo capacity of 9,000 cubic metres, with a cargo containment system designed to maximize insulation performance and meet the most stringent safety requirements.

The vessel has been developed to provide liquefied hydrogen bunkering services to merchant ships, in addition to open sea transport.

"Equinor believes hydrogen may represent an attractive energy solution for the sectors that are hard to decarbonize and currently outside the scope of renewable solutions like batteries. Long haul maritime shipping is one of these and an important milestone has been passed by introducing a logistical solution for transport of liquefied hydrogen by the sea," commented Steinar Eikaas, VP for Low Carbon Solutions in Equinor.

Håkon Lenz, VP Europe and Americas of Wilhelmsen Ship Management, remarked: "We see hydrogen as a possible fuel for the future. The commercial feasibility of such a vessel is depending on the overall hydrogen market development. Once market signals show that there is a need for big-scale liquefied hydrogen, we and our partners are ready to take this design to the next level. By initiating and participating in this project, we prepare ourselves for meeting the demand of our customers in the years to come, and Wilhelmsen will always seek opportunities in new technology to enable sustainable global trade."


Ubuntu Humanity alongside Fuelng Bellina vessel. DNV says existing LNG infrastructure can support low-GHG methane transition  

Classification society finds biomethane and e-methane compatible with current LNG fleet and bunkering networks.

IBIA bunker buyers working group graphic. IBIA launches Bunker Buyers Working Group for fuel procurement end users  

New forum aims to represent shipowners, charterers and ship managers in policy and regulatory discussions.

Carbon registry process diagram. MOL and Shell launch book-and-claim scheme for marine biofuel emissions credits  

Japanese shipping firm partners with Shell to offer environmental attribute certificates from third-party vessel operations.

Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) policy brief cover. Bureau Veritas releases report on EU Renewable Energy Directive’s impact on shipping  

Classification society examines RED III compliance challenges as member states transpose the directive into national law.

New York City skyline. IBIA to hold 2026 annual convention in New York  

The event marks the first time in recent years that the association’s gathering has been held in the Americas.

Port of Barcelona delegates. Port of Barcelona advances shore power rollout for cruise terminals  

Installation of OPS systems begins at MSC and Royal Caribbean terminals as port reorganises infrastructure.

NACKS bulk carriers with rotor sails. Anemoi and NACKS secure ClassNK approval for Ultramax rotor sail designs  

Two configurations for wind-assisted propulsion systems on bulk carriers receive approval in principle.

DP World London vessel. Elbdeich Reederei takes delivery of first methanol-capable feeder vessel  

German shipowner receives 1,250-teu dual-fuel newbuild from Chinese yard, with three more to follow.

AuctionConnect and Asyad Shipping logos. Asyad Shipping adopts AuctionConnect digital bunker platform under three-year deal  

Middle East shipping company to implement auction-based procurement system across fleet operations.

Fuel for thought: LNG for Cruise report cover. LNG remains the most deployable decarbonisation option for cruise shipping, Lloyd’s Register report finds  

Classification society’s latest research examines the fuel’s role in the sector’s energy transition and pathway to net zero.