ABB to provide power, propulsion systems to Samskip’s ships

European containerline Samskip has tapped Swiss tech firm ABB for the provision of complete power, propulsion and automation systems for its hydrogen-powered container vessels.

ABB will deliver the system for Samskip’s two newbuild short-sea container ships which will be among the first of their kind to use hydrogen as a fuel. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

The 135-meter ships will be built by Cochin Shipyard in India and are due for delivery in the third and fourth quarters of 2025, respectively. Both vessels will be operating a 700-nautical mile route between Oslo Fjord and Rotterdam.

In addition to the integration of hydrogen fuel cells, ABB’s package includes a compact version of ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power distribution system that optimises energy use on board. The vessels will also feature an energy storage solution control, as well as a remote diagnostic system.

Samskip’s vessels will be powered by a 3.2 MW hydrogen fuel cell each, with diesel generators installed for backup. Fuel cells turn the chemical energy from hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. With the use of renewables to produce hydrogen, the entire energy chain will be clean. With this technology, each vessel will be able to avoid around 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions a year when powered by fuel cells and by using green shore power at the port of call.

The project is co-funded by the Norwegian state enterprise ENOVA. Operating under Norway’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, ENOVA promotes a shift towards more environmentally friendly energy consumption and production, as well as the development of energy and climate technology.