HMM has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with four subsidiaries of Hanwha Group (Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems) and Korean Register (KR) to jointly develop a next-generation zero-carbon propulsion system for ships.
Under the collaboration, the partners aim to design an innovative propulsion system that generates thrust from an ammonia-based gas turbine and electrical power from fuel cells, enabling fully carbon-free operation. The project will focus on developing systems applicable to container vessels and will include concept design of hybrid propulsion combining fuel cells and battery technologies, economic feasibility studies, and the design of new vessel hull forms optimised for this solution.
The cooperation is expected to create a synergistic model that brings together HMM’s operational experience in shipping, Hanwha Group’s technical capabilities, and KR’s framework for technical verification and classification.
This initiative aligns with HMM’s ambitious ‘Near-Zero’ target, which has been moved forward to 2045. The company says it continues to lead the industry’s energy transition by deploying LNG dual-fuelled and methanol-powered containerships in response to tightening environmental regulations and customer demand for greener logistics.
Image: MoU signing for zero-carbon ship propulsion project (source: HMM)
