Norway to Build World's Largest Hydrogen-Powered Ferry

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Key Highlights

  • The 117-meter-long vessel will carry 120 cars, using green hydrogen for at least 85% of its Arctic route.

Myklebust to Construct Gigantic Hydrogen-Powered Vessel

Norwegian shipping company Torghatten Nord has contracted Myklebust shipyard in Norway to build the world's largest hydrogen-powered ferry. Designed to carry 120 cars on Norway's longest ferry route, it will operate in the Arctic Circle waters of the Vestfjordstrekninga.

Vessel Specifications and Sustainability Goals

Myklebust's ship will connect the towns of Bodø and Lofoten, using hydrogen sourced from Bodø. Norwegian Ship Design will be responsible for the vessel's design, with delivery expected in 2026. The immense vessel will be constructed at Myklebust's Gursken facility south of Ålesund, boosting the shipyard's workforce and operations. The project includes close collaboration with the Norwegian Maritime Authority to establish safety standards for this pioneering class of vessels. Various suppliers will contribute to design, technology, equipment, and hydrogen supply.

Connecting Bodø, the islands of Røst, Værøy, and Moskenes along the 278-kilometer Vestfjordstrekninga ferry route, the hydrogen-powered ferry is set to revolutionize maritime transport. According to Offshore Energy, the 117-meter vessel will primarily run on green hydrogen for at least 85% of its Arctic Sea route. It will navigate challenging conditions with an average speed of 31.5 kilometers per hour, optimized for efficient operation.

The onboard storage will supply hydrogen to fuel cells, which convert the energy into electricity for propulsion and auxiliary systems. Utilizing hydrogen will reduce CO2 emissions by an estimated 26,500 tons annually along the route.

This project marks a significant milestone, as passenger transport using hydrogen over such a long route in harsh conditions has not been attempted before. It is a collaborative effort between Torghatten Nord, Norwegian Ship Design, Myklebust Verft shipyard, fuel cell integrator SEAM, and hydrogen provider GreenH.