Ballard Power Systems Secures Largest Marine Fuel Cell Order Yet for Samskip Vessels
On July 22, 2025, Ballard Power Systems, a leading company in fuel cell technology, announced an impressive new purchase order. The order involves the supply of 6.4 MW of fuel cell engines to eCap Marine, a German company specializing in emission-free marine power solutions. These engines will be deployed in two Samskip vessels, contributing to the company's effort to reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport.
This order marks a continuation of the partnership between Ballard and eCap Marine which began back in 2021. The collaboration focuses on utilizing cutting-edge technology in fuel cell propulsion to ensure environmentally friendly marine operations. Specifically, the engines involved in this deal are the FCwave™-200 kW models, designed for efficient integration into green marine propulsion systems. They will serve to power vessels operating routes between Norway and the Netherlands, which are crucial for short sea and multimodal transportation in Europe.
Marty Neese, the President and CEO of Ballard Power Systems, expressed pride in expanding their partnership with eCap Marine and Samskip, highlighting this order as one of the most significant in the marine fuel cell industry. He noted it as a crucial validation of using Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology for marine applications, which reinforces their commitment to sustainable transportation.
Lars Ravens, Managing Director of eCap Marine, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that their ongoing collaboration with Ballard is pivotal to their mission of decarbonizing marine transportation. He noted that this latest order showcases their shared goal of achieving operational excellence while being stewards of the environment. Together, these organizations are setting a new standard by providing a clean propulsion solution that meets the rigorous demands of long-haul marine operations.
The FCwave™ fuel cell module that Ballard is providing is notable for being the first DNV type-approved fuel cell module tailored for marine applications. This approval signifies compliance with international safety and design standards, ensuring that the vessels equipped with these engines will prioritize safety and environmental responsibility. The realization of this order is further supported by ENOVA, a Norwegian government agency that promotes energy and climate initiatives, endorsing the public-private partnership approach needed to accelerate the transition to sustainable marine energy systems.
Looking to the future, Ballard Power Systems aims to facilitate environmentally conscious mobility solutions through zero-emission PEM fuel cells, extending their influence across buses, commercial trucks, trains, and stationary power generation. To stay updated on their latest innovations and developments, interested parties can visit their website at www.ballard.com.
eCap Marine, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a company dedicated to creating innovative solutions for emission-free shipping. They offer diverse services ranging from technical design to subsidy support, ensuring a comprehensive pathway for clients to embrace cleaner technologies. An example of their pioneering efforts includes retrofitting existing vessels to integrate hydrogen-based systems that enable zero-emission operations. Their commitment to sustainable marine technology makes them a valuable partner for organizations like Ballard and Samskip on the journey towards reduced environmental impact in maritime operations.
This purchase order not only strengthens the connection between these companies but also signals a broader movement within the maritime industry toward sustainable energy sources. By continually pushing the boundaries of technology and collaboration, they are paving the way for a future where marine transport can contribute positively to global sustainability goals.