German company eCap Marine has secured a contract to equip two hydrogen-powered bulk carriers for Norwegian ship operator Green Marine Infrastructure (GMI) with its integrated hydrogen energy power systems known as eCap H2EPS.
The new contract follows ongoing projects and is said to strengthen the collaboration between the two companies in the field of zero-emission shipping. The two newbuild vessels, each with a capacity of about 3,000 dwt, will be constructed by Showgule Shipyards in India and are scheduled to enter service in 2029. The vessels will primarily operate in Norwegian coastal waters.
As part of the project, eCap Marine will supply the complete hydrogen system solution for both vessels. The scope of supply includes compressed hydrogen storage systems, PEM fuel cell technology with an output of 1.2MW per vessel, as well as the required power management, control and safety systems for maritime applications.
With these newbuilds, GMI continues its commitment towards more sustainable coastal shipping. In Norway in particular, zero-emission propulsion technologies are becoming increasingly important in reducing environmental impacts in sensitive coastal and fjord regions.
GMI CEO Torstein Holvik said: “Our ambition is to become a leading owner of hydrogen-powered vessels. These newbuilds are another important step in that direction, and we are pleased to continue this journey with eCap Marine.”
Lars Ravens, MD eCap Marine, added: “The renewed order from GMI demonstrates the growing confidence in hydrogen as a viable solution for maritime applications. We are pleased to support GMI’s ambition and bring our experience from previous projects into these new vessels.”
Image: GMI hydrogen-fuelled bulk carrier (source: eCap Marine)
