VINSSEN Receives Approval for Hydrogen Fuel Cell System
A Leading South Korean company (VINSSEN) in hydrogen fuel cell technology has announced project-based approval from Bureau Veritas (BV) for its 60 KW PEM fuel cell system.
VINSSEN’s 60 KW PEM fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell module, an integrated converter module, a battery system and a transformer, along with a user-friendly interface for operators.
VINSSEN’s Project Manager, Seok-Hee Lee, remarked: “The project has its unique challenges, but these were and will be systematically handled through the efforts of VINSSEN’s team and the close cooperation of our confederates. This success is a major step to offer the maritime industry solutions to carbon neutrality via hydrogen fuel cell technology for the future.”
A successful ordeal in Singapore was carried out in collaboration with key industry partners like:
- Shell Singapore: Project sponsor
- Seatrium Limited: Project developer
- Penguin International Limited: Trial vessel owner and operator
- Air Liquide Singapore: Hydrogen expert and provider
Previous Achievements and Future Plans
VINSSEN has received approval in principle (AiP) certifications from the Korean Register for its 250 KW and 100 KW maritime fuel cell power loads. Further, the company completed a Series C investment round summing KRW 15bn ($10m), aspired at product development, market expansion, and key staff recruitment.
VINSSEN’s statement highlighted the importance of this approval, stating it as a critical step towards demonstrating the feasibility of hydrogen fuel cell systems onboard commercial vessels.
Additional Takeaways and Summary
MOU Signing:
- VINSSEN Co., Ltd. and DSEC Co., Ltd. are the companies involved.
- Event Location: DSEC headquarters, Jung-gu, Busan
- Purpose: Eco-friendly hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system technology partnership and joint R&D for commercial and government ships.
Agreements and Objectives:
- Promotion and Order Receipt: Application of Fuel Cell Technology & Solution to private and public water transporters.
- Technical Cooperation: Joint development and verification of hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system ships.
- Business Promotions: Joint execution and technical support for retrofitting existing vessels.
- Competitiveness: Secure competitive pricing for ship propulsion system products and carefully plan the global technology exchange.
Projects:
- Pilot Project: Collaboration with Shell, Seatrium, Penguin International, and Air Liquide.
- The first Hydrogen Fuel Cell System was installed on a ship in Asia in November making it a milestone for VINSSEN’s eco-friendly maritime technology.
- Ongoing Verification: Performance and stability testing of hydrogen fuel cell ships for one year.
Expansion and Market Activities:
- Joined the K Startup Center Singapore in April 2022 and established a local branch for operations and manufacturing.
- They are active not just in Singapore but beyond, soon expanding to Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.
- First hydrogen energy marine solution project of Singapore, with ongoing discussions with logistics and energy shipping companies.
