In what is described as a significant step towards sustainability and emission-free energy sources on board, German shipping company Offshore Service Gesellschaft has decided to switch to green hydrogen as the main source of energy for its offshore supply vessel ‘Coastal Liberty’, operating on the Wadden Sea.
In February 2024 the refitted OSV received class certification by DNV for its newly installed hydrogen system on board. Hamburg-based eCap Marine, contracted by Offshore Service Gesellschaft, engineered the system enabling the vessel to operate producing zero emissions using hydrogen and batteries.
Over a two year period, eCap Marine has developed a containerised system featuring two Ballard FCwave (2x200kW) fuel cells, a maritime battery system from Lehmann Marine, a fire extinguishing system, tank units, a custom power management system, and all necessary cooling and safety equipment.
Lars Ravens, MD eCap Marine, said: “This kind of system is a unique installation on board a seagoing ship and scalable up to megawatt-sized designs for larger commercial ships and longer voyages as well as smaller inland vessels.”
The green hydrogen for the installed fuel cells will be produced locally and sustainably, using offshore wind power on an electrolyser hydrogen plant a few kilometres from the vessel’s berth. The electrolyser, which was installed simultaneously with the fuel cell project, is designed for future expansion in case of higher demand. eCap Marine designed the three swappable high pressure tank systems with the focus on safety, and in alignment with the rules and regulations resulting to the transport of the units between the vessel and the electrolyser by truck.
eCap Head of Projects Frederike Engels said: “Switching, disconnecting and reconnecting the hydrogen tanks is very easy and safe, taking just a few minutes due to the toolless design and standard connections for crane and truck.”
For the vessel’s crew the new system means reduced vibrations on board and a more direct propulsion allowing immediate response at the propeller shafts. eCap Marine believes that this investment will not only have a positive impact on the environment but will also bring long-term benefits for its customers and society as a whole.
Image: Containerised fuel cell and battery modules onboard ‘Coastal Liberty’ (credit: eCap)
