French duo to explore green hydrogen refuelling methods

French cruise ship operator Ponant has partnered with energy startup Farwind Energy to explore methods for refuelling ships with green hydrogen.

PHOTO: Ponant’s Swap2Zero project’s vessel concept. Ponant

Together, the companies have outlined a roadmap to promote the production and utilisation of green hydrogen. Their plan involves sharing advancements in hydrogen management onboard ships and working together to develop initial marine hydrogen use cases while addressing potential technological challenges.

Both partners are committed to commissioning Ponant's Swap2Zero project and Farwind Energy’s inaugural energy ship by 2030.

Ponant’s Swap2Zero entails the development of a transoceanic vessel that can run on green hydrogen. The project is primarily focused on harnessing wind power, while low-temperature fuel cells operating on liquid hydrogen for propulsion are also being studied.

Farwind Energy’s energy ship technology focuses on generating electricity from offshore wind power. Green hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis using electricity generated from wind energy and seawater. The green hydrogen produced can either be transported to shore for domestic consumption or used for refuelling ships while still at sea.

“Capable of being produced near the ship’s operating areas, our liquid hydrogen represents a promising solution to decarbonize maritime transport,” Farwind Energy’s chairman Arnaud Poitou said.

By Tuhin Roy

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