Inspection, certification and consulting engineering organisation RINA has awarded type approval certification to the NovaLT16 gas turbine technology developed by Baker Hughes, an energy technology company.
The turbine has been designed specifically to operate on natural gas and up to 100% hydrogen for marine propulsion applications. The certification is considered a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between RINA and Baker Hughes to explore the use of advanced gas turbine technology in the maritime sector, as shipowners seek viable solutions to decarbonise operations in response to evolving regulatory frameworks.
Giosuè Vezzuto, EVP Marine, RINA, said: “This certification highlights the value of early collaboration between technology developers and classification societies when introducing innovations to the maritime sector. By supporting the assessment of the NovaLT turbine, we contribute to ensuring that the solution is aligned with safety, performance and regulatory expectations.”
Ahmed Eldemerdash, VP Climate Technology Solutions, Baker Hughes, added: “Decarbonising maritime shipping requires solutions that deliver performance today and flexibility for tomorrow – without compromising reliability or safety. With RINA’s type approval of our NovaLT16 turbine, we are advancing a proven, fuel-flexible platform ready for real-world marine applications. This milestone reflects how we are rewriting the energy equation – applying proven technologies in new ways to help customers balance energy security, affordability, and sustainability.”
Originally developed for industrial power generation applications, the NovaLT gas turbine family combines compact design, efficiency and operational flexibility. The technology operates in the 12MW–17MW range in simple cycle and up to 22MW in combined cycle applications, with claimed high availability and extended maintenance intervals of up to 35,000h. Through a dedicated maritime validation process, the NovaLT16 technology meets the specific requirements of onboard installation and operation, enabling compliance with maritime regulations and seamless integration into ship systems.
According to RINA, as the maritime sector accelerates its transition to alternative fuels, gas turbines are gaining attention for their high-power density, operational flexibility, and ability to support new propulsion architectures, including electric and hybrid systems for lower CO2 emissions – especially when compared to conventional two-stroke and four-stroke diesel engines. Baker Hughes NovaLT turbine technology is designed to operate with natural gas and is being further enhanced to support multiple fuels, including low- and zero-carbon fuels such as 100% hydrogen – positioning it as a key enabler for long-term maritime decarbonisation.
Image: The marine-validated NovaLT 16 gas turbine has been certified by RINA (source: RINA)
