Chowgule Shipbuilding Signs Contract with Norway’s GMI for Two Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Coastal Bulkers

Chowgule Shipbuilding has signed a contract with Norway-based GMI AS to build two EcoFlex 4.0K Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Coastal Bulkers, with deliveries scheduled by 2029.

The contract was signed in Goa on 30 September 2026 and covers two firm vessels designed for short-sea and coastal cargo operations.

Hydrogen fuel-cell hybrid vessels for coastal trade

The EcoFlex 4.0K bulkers are being developed with hydrogen fuel-cell hybrid propulsion technology to support lower-emission operations in coastal and short-sea shipping.

The two-vessel order adds to GMI’s plans to develop a hydrogen-powered fleet for Norwegian coastal waters and represents another project involving Indian shipbuilding capacity and alternative-fuel vessel technology.

GMI expands hydrogen-powered fleet plans

GMI has previously placed orders for hydrogen fuel-cell vessels intended for operation in Norway.

An earlier report on the project identified an Indian shipyard as “Showgule Shipyards”, which appears to refer to Chowgule Shipbuilding. The reported vessels were also scheduled for delivery in 2029, with eCap Marine identified as the hydrogen-system supplier.

The hydrogen systems are understood to use 1.2 MW proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells per vessel.

Contract adds to India’s alternative-fuel shipbuilding portfolio

The agreement brings together Chowgule Shipbuilding’s vessel construction capabilities with GMI’s plans for hydrogen-powered coastal shipping.

The project also adds to the growing number of alternative-fuel vessel programmes being developed through Indian shipyards for international owners, particularly in the European short-sea and coastal shipping market.