Ballard Power Systems Signs Significant Order for Fuel Cell Engines with eCap Marine

Major Advancement in Maritime Propulsion Technology

Ballard Power Systems, a leader in fuel cell technology, has made headlines with its recent announcement of a substantial order from eCap Marine GmbH. This significant new deal, which involves the supply of 6.4 MW fuel cell engines, is tailored for deployment in two vessels operated by Samskip, one of Europe’s leading multimodal transport operators.

Partnership Highlights

This order not only enhances Ballard's existing collaboration with eCap Marine, which dates back to 2021, but it also signifies a crucial step towards greener maritime transport. The contract entails the integration of 32 FCwave™-200 kW engines into eCap Marine's eco-friendly marine propulsion systems, aimed at decarbonizing routes between Norway and the Netherlands. Delivery of these advanced power systems is scheduled for 2025 and 2026.

Marty Neese, the CEO of Ballard Power Systems, expressed pride in this expanded partnership, emphasizing its importance as one of the most significant contracts for marine fuel cell engines in history. He views the deployment of fuel cell technology on Samskip’s vessels as a pivotal endorsement for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell applications in maritime contexts.

Commitment to Decarbonization

Lars Ravens, the Managing Director of eCap Marine, underlined the essence of sustainable shipping solutions and highlighted that this latest order illustrates their shared commitment to operational excellence and environmental stewardship. Together, they aim to provide a clean propulsion solution that meets the rigorous demands of long-distance maritime operations.

One of the standout features of Ballard’s FCwave™ is its status as the first fuel cell module globally certified by DNV for marine applications, ensuring compliance with international maritime safety and design standards. This development is backed by ENOVA, the Norwegian government agency committed to environmental initiatives, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating the transition towards sustainable marine energy solutions.

About Ballard Power Systems

Founded with the vision of enabling a sustainable energy future through fuel cell technology, Ballard Power Systems aims to revolutionize mobility electrification across various sectors, including buses, commercial trucks, trains, ships, and stationary energy applications. Their technology promises zero emissions, helping cities and industries reduce their environmental footprints. For detailed information about their operations and technology, visit Ballard's website.

More on eCap Marine

eCap Marine, based in Hamburg, Germany, specializes in innovative emission-free maritime solutions, covering both propulsion and specific on-board energy demands. With experts in naval architecture, electrical engineering, and hydrogen fuel systems, they provide comprehensive services that encompass feasibility studies, grant application support, technical design, and hydrogen handling. Their first hydrogen project involved retrofitting an offshore supply vessel to operate emission-free, showcasing their commitment to sustainable shipping practices.

The collaboration between Ballard Power Systems and eCap Marine exemplifies a hopeful shift in the maritime industry towards eco-friendly solutions. It reflects growing recognition within the transport sector of the necessity for cleaner energy sources and innovations that can support the world's efforts to combat climate change. As the demand for sustainable transportation solutions continues to rise, partnerships like these signal a transformative moment in how goods are moved across the globe, making a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from maritime operations.