Linde has announced that it has been selected by Norwegian ferry operator Norled to supply liquid hydrogen and related infrastructure to the world’s first operational hydrogen-powered ferry, which will transport both cars and passengers.
The company says it will provide a full-service solution to the MF Hydra ferry in Norway. Liquid hydrogen will be supplied from its new 24MW electrolyzer at the Leuna Chemical Complex in Germany, which will use PEM (proton exchange membrane) technology to produce green hydrogen.
Linde will also build and install onshore and onboard hydrogen storage, distribution and safety equipment. Supply of hydrogen is scheduled to commence in 2022, at which point the fuel cell-powered ferry will reduce its annual carbon emissions by up to 95%.
“Hydrogen is a powerful energy carrier with proven potential for reducing carbon emissions when used in mobility,” said Armando Botello, president, Europe North, at Linde. “We are proud to be working with Norled and, together, taking the lead in developing the marine sector’s transition to climate-friendly fuels.”
Linde notes that it has the largest liquid hydrogen capacity and distribution system in the world. The company also operates the world’s first high-purity hydrogen storage cavern, coupled with an approximately 1,000km pipeline network to reliably supply its customers.