ABB and Ballard Power to jointly develop zero-emission power plant
(Posted on 27/06/18)
ABB, the pioneering technology leader, and Ballard Power Systems, the leading global provider of innovative clean energy fuel cell solutions, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on developing the next-generation fuel cell power system for sustainable marine e-mobility.
The fuel cell power system, to be jointly designed, developed and validated by ABB and Ballard Power Systems, is anticipated to play a significant part in accelerating the industry-wide adoption of sustainable solutions for marine e-mobility, and help ship-owners meet the increasing demands for clean operations.
ABB and Ballard Power Systems will leverage the existing kilowatt-scale fuel cell technologies and optimize them to create a pioneering megawatt-scale solution suitable for powering larger ships. With an electrical generating capacity of 3MW (4000 HP), the new system will fit within a single module no bigger in size than a traditional marine engine running on fossil fuels.
“This MoU is a significant next step in our ongoing relationship with ABB, the innovative market leader in marine solutions,” said Rob Campbell, Chief Commercial Officer at Ballard Power Systems. “The rapidly evolving marine market represents an exciting growth opportunity for zero-emission fuel cell technology. And, Ballard’s prior development and deployment of megawatt-scale containerized PEM fuel cell systems for land-based use gives us the critical experience and knowledge to collaborate effectively on the development of clean energy solutions for key marine market applications.”
Fuel cell systems can have various applications for vessels, such as providing power for a ship’s hotel operations during the time of docking, or for powering the propulsion when ships are at sea. During the initial phase, the collaboration will focus on the development of fuel cell power systems for passenger vessels.
The proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEM) convert the chemical energy from hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. They involve no combustion, converting fuel directly to electricity, heat and clean water. With the use of renewables to produce the hydrogen, the entire energy chain can be clean.
“The next generation of ships – electric, digital and connected – will require energy sources that are not only able to meet the increasing demands for fuel efficiency, but will also enable cleaner and safer shipping,” said Peter Terwiesch, president ABB's Industrial Automation division. “We are excited to collaborate with Ballard Power Systems on driving the development of the next-generation fuel cell technology that will power the vessels of the future.”
ABB is already actively involved in collaborative development of the fuel cell technology for marine applications, including research, testing and a pilot installation implementation.
ABB is one of the world’s leading enablers of sustainable transportation, including marine vessels. ABB’s role as a front runner in clean-transportation technologies is to equip the marine industry with electric, digital and connected solutions that maximize the full potential of vessels and ultimately enable a safe, efficient and sustainable maritime industry.
Latest News
Inmarsat and Maritime London establish SEA-CARE working group
(Posted on 10/01/25)Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, supported by Maritime London, have established SEA-CARE as a new... Read more
Chowgule partners with LR to develop first-ever ESG report and strategy
(Posted on 07/01/25)Chowgule & Co., a leading shipbuilding and engineering conglomerate in India, is partnering with... Read more
Martin Engineering opens new business unit in Kazakhstan
(Posted on 17/12/24)A world leader in bulk handling solutions, Martin Engineering, has announced fresh expansion in Central... Read more
Zelim appoints USCG SAR expert for North American expansion
(Posted on 17/12/24)Edinburgh-headquartered maritime safety innovator Zelim has appointed a former Commander of the United... Read more
Telestack secures prestigious Mibau Stema aggregates handling contract
(Posted on 11/12/24)Telestack has announced a significant new contract with Mibau Stema, secured in collaboration with long... Read more
Deployment of Starlink/VSAT Hybrid connectivity on 58 Vroon vessels completed
(Posted on 11/12/24)KVH Industries, Inc. has announced that, together with international shipping leader Vroon, they have... Read more
Damen advances sustainable dockings with shore power from Elma Systems
(Posted on 04/12/24)Damen Shiprepair Oranjewerf is giving a green boost to ship repair, maintenance, conversion and refit... Read more
Superior’s TeleStacker Conveyor automation gets major upgrade
(Posted on 29/11/24)Superior Industries, Inc., a US-based manufacturer and global supplier of bulk material processing and... Read more
Superior opens new manufacturing facility in Minnesota
(Posted on 20/11/24)Superior Industries, Inc., a US-based manufacturer and global supplier of bulk material processing and... Read more
Low-friction coatings set to improve RightShip GHG rating
(Posted on 20/11/24)RightShips’ EVDI methodology is familiar to most drybulk ship owners, with chartering customers... Read more
