Hydrogen-based technologies in maritime sector: technical analysis and prospective

The maritime transportation sector is one of the main contributors to global emissions greenhouse gases (GHGs). International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted a strategy reduce these from international shipping >50% by 2050, compared 2008’s emissions. Therefore, ship owners need adopt solutions bring within and other future limits means environmentally friendly fuels (hydrogen or hydrogen carriers) high efficiency propulsion technologies (fuel cells). This paper focuses on replacement conventional Diesel genset installed hybrid small-size ferry, with an innovative system based PEMFC technology. A real case scenario investigated: total energy/power demand vessel determined basing typical operational profile. Then, preliminary redesign its powertrain configuration proposed along energy management strategy. analysis allowed define consumption for daily operation. Finally, different storage involving both compressed liquefied have been considered compared, in order identify ship’s weight space requirements.