Norway Making Significant Technological Advances in Hydrogen
The 2024 Hannover Trade Fair concluded on 26 April, and Norway, this year’s partner country, showcased its dedication to pioneering technological advancements, especially in the hydrogen sector. Among Norway’s repertoire, there were notable hydrogen innovations in marine technology.
TECO2030’s fuel cell gathered significant attention in Hannover while back in Norway, Bergen Engines is developing a 100% hydrogen-fuelled, medium-speed marine engine.
During Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre’s visit to Hannover, he observed a demonstration of TECO2030’s fuel cell which converts hydrogen into zero-emission energy. TECO2030 notes that,
“Marine shipping is well-known to be a significant source of greenhouse gas and particulate emissions. IMO (International Maritime Organisation) has an ambitious target of reducing carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050, according to 2008 values. In addition, GHG (greenhouse gases) reduced by at least 50% by 2050. Hydrogen will be essential to support the decarbonisation and emission reduction of the maritime industry. The hydrogen fuel cell is currently the most efficient way to store energy as a synthetic fuel and produce electrical energy. TECO2030 are offering a specifically designed modular fuel cell system for heavy-duty marine applications.
TECO2030’s fuel cell for heavy-duty marine applications
TECO2030 is an engineering and equipment development company based in Lysaker, Norway. They have a focus on a greener and cleaner environment. Their core objective is to identify and develop high-quality, cutting edge and cost-effective solutions to significantly reduce the ecological impact of maritime pollution.
Norwegian engine builder Bergen Engines has entered a partnership with FME MarTrans, an industry alliance which aims to reduce emissions from shipping.
Bergen Engines’ transition to clean marine fuels
MarTrans (Maritime Energy Transition Centre) is a newly formed research group, which aims to accelerate the green transition. They have been in an eight-year collaboration with FME (the Norwegian Centre for Environmentally Friendly Energy Research. The collaboration comments,
“We are dedicated to researching, innovating, and educating to accelerate the energy transition in the shipping industry. Together with our partners, we’re not just envisioning a greener future, we’re actively shaping it”.
The Research Council of Norway funds over 300 million NOK (around $27 million) towards the initiative.
FME MarTrans focuses on four key challenges in eliminating the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the maritime sector.
- Environmentally friendly fuel
- Energy systems onboard
- Availability of fuels
- Support and integration
As of 29th April, Bergen Engines announced their plan to build a 100% medium-speed hydrogen-fuelled engine by December 2024.
Bergen Engines, known for advancements in the pursuit of cleaner energy solutions, was (most recently) the first engine-producer company to successfully test a 30% volume blend of hydrogen at 100% load. They mention this to be a ‘significant milestone that sets the stage for the upcoming 100% hydrogen-fuelled engine’.
Their move towards the 100% hydrogen-fuelled engine, represents the engineering expertise of Bergen Engines, but also corresponds with global efforts to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Bergen Engines is simultaneously conducting research in ammonia and methanol energy.
Jon Erik Røv, Managing Director of Bergen Engines stated
“The significance of this announcement extends beyond our company, as it marks a critical milestone in contributing to the broader green transition. We recognise the urgent need for sustainable solutions, and the development of a 100% hydrogen-fuelled engine signifies a key step toward achieving a more environmentally friendly future. The company remains determined in its commitment to providing reliable and efficient power generation, while actively participating in the global movement towards a cleaner, greener world.”
Bergen Engines is known for advancements in medium-speed engine technology. This latest initiative puts sustainability and a greener future at the forefront of this innovative company’s mission.
Byline by Sonny Riddell
