Technology firm ABB and fuel cell solutions provider Ballard Power Systems (BPS) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a next-generation fuel cell power system for the maritime industry.
ABB and BPS are planning to leverage on the existing kilowatt-scale fuel cell technologies and optimise them to create a pioneering megawatt-scale solution suitable for powering larger ships.
With an electrical generating capacity of 3MW (4,000 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.”
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.”
Photo credit: ABB
Published: 12 July, 2018
Research aims to create a visual twin model for optimisation, engine operating state monitoring and engine failure diagnosis.
A Reinplus Vanwoerden bunker barge delivered bunkers to a Samskip vessel in Rotterdam.
DNV’s Martin Wold answers key questions about the Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) and Fuelboss platforms that support shipping’s energy transition.
Technology to save each shuttle tanker over 3,000 mt of fuel each year, says Wartsila.
Both organisations working for effective bunker licencing schemes, preferably introducing mass flow meters, to be implemented in bunker hubs around the world.
FPS will strengthen the FLAGSHIPS consortium and expand its green hydrogen-fuelled fleet with the “FPS Waal” that will be converted to a zero-emission container vessel.
Cash of SGD 4.43 million and USD 243,100, and one piece of 100-gram gold-coloured bar recovered in safe belonging to Abdul Latif Bin Ibrahim kept at Extra Space warehouse storage facility, show court documents.
Program introduces periodic assessments, mass flow metering data analysis, and regular training for relevant key personnel to better handle the MFMS to ensure a high level of continuous operational competency.
U.S. Claims Register Summary recorded a total USD 833 million claim from a total 180 creditors against O.W. Bunker USA, according to the creditor list seen by Singapore bunkering publication Manifold Times.
Glencore purchased fuel through Straits Pinnacle which contracted supply from Unicious Energy. Contaminated HSFO was loaded at Khor Fakkan port and shipped to a FSU in Tanjong Pelepas, Malaysia to be further blended.
Individuals were employees of surveying companies engaged by Shell to inspect the volume of oil loaded onto the vessels which Shell supplied oil to; they allegedly accepted bribes totalling at least USD 213,000.
MPA preliminary investigations revealed that the affected marine fuel was supplied by Glencore Singapore Pte Ltd who later sold part of the same cargo to PetroChina International (Singapore) Pte Ltd.
