The system accommodates diverse power requirements for various ship types and operational scenarios.
Yanmar Holdings’ subsidiary Yanmar Power Technology has obtained an approval in principle (AiP) for its GH320FC maritime hydrogen fuel cell system from DNV, a Norway-based classification society.
The GH320FC is engineered to serve as a modern power source for maritime applications, featuring a design that simplifies installation across various vessel types.
The system supports the connection of multiple units in parallel and allows for a flexible arrangement of hydrogen fuel cell modules.
It also caters to a wide range of power needs for different types of ships and operational scenarios.
Yanmar Power Technology Large Power Products Business general manager and director Masaru Hirose said: “This is a significant milestone in bringing our hydrogen fuel cell solutions to European customers.
“Drawing on our experience with previous installations such as the hydrogen fuel cell system being used on a coastal passenger ferry currently in commercial operation in Japan, we believe our solutions can help the customers to achieve their decarbonisation goals.”
The hydrogen fuel cell system is specifically applicable for coastal passenger ferries, inland waterway cargo vessels, and port service vessels, as well as operations in low or zero emission zones throughout Europe.
DNV Maritime Engines and Pressurised Equipment head Olaf Drews said: “As the maritime industry pushes forward towards decarbonisation, we need to examine every option that offers full zero-emission operations.
“And fuel cells in combination with clean renewably produced fuels are a highly efficient and scalable power solution to meet this challenge.”
In January this year, Yanmar received government approval for its plan to develop hydrogen-fuelled engines and fuel cell systems.
This endorsement from the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism supports the country’s Zero Emission Ship Construction Promotion Project.
