The Netherlands maritime industry is said to be taking a large step toward sustainability with the launch of the H2ESTIA Project, an initiative to develop the first zero-emission general cargo ship powered by liquid hydrogen.
Led by Dutch Innovation Company (NIM ) and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, this initiative is a key pillar of the Maritime Masterplan, setting a new standard for decarbonising European maritime logistics.
The project focuses on designing, constructing, and demonstrating a hydrogen-powered cargo vessel that will operate in the North Sea and beyond. Managed by Van Dam Shipping, the ship is designed to transport bulk goods, eliminating harmful emissions.
At the heart of the H2ESTIA Project is an integrated approach to hydrogen powered propulsion. The vessel will be equipped with a newly-designed cryogenic hydrogen storage and bunkering system, enabling safe handling and storage of liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures. A hydrogen fuel cell system together with batteries will provide primary propulsion, delivering clean power. To further enhance energy efficiency, the ship will incorporate wind-assisted propulsion and waste heat recovery solutions, reducing hydrogen consumption. Digital twin technology will create a virtual model of the ship, allowing for real-time monitoring, operational optimisation, and enhanced safety measures.
NIM CTO Sander Roosjen said: “H2ESTIA is a flagship project for commercial shipping. By integrating hydrogen technology with digital innovation, we are proving that zero-emission shipping is not just a vision—it is an achievable reality.”
The project is set to demonstrate technological readiness and economic viability, ensuring such vessels can be commercially deployed. It addresses major challenges such as the certification of hydrogen systems, risk management, and crew training, paving the way for the safe integration of hydrogen technology into maritime operations.
Jan van Dam, CEO, Van Dam Shipping, said: “Parallel to the H2ESTIA Project, we are working on securing the supply, as well as the necessary bunkering and logistics. This is a combined effort, as a single ship alone does not generate sufficient demand. Collaboration at this stage is what transforms our ambitions into reality.”
The H2ESTIA Project is supported by a consortium of maritime and technology companies including: TNO, Marin, the University of Twente, Cryovat, EnginX, Encontech, classification society RINA and the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
Image: Concept design of zero-emission hydrogen powered bulk carrier (source: NIM/Business Wire)
