HAV Hydrogen receives DNV’s approval for PodH2 containers

HAV Hydrogen has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV for its containerised hydrogen system for ships.

HAV Hydrogen – a subsidiary of HAV Group ASA – will start manufacturing the Zero Emission PodH2 containers during the second half of 2023, aiming for first deliveries in 2024.

By using 200kW hydrogen fuel cells, the system is flexible and can provide 1,000kW within the footprint of a standard 20-foot container. By combining multiple containers, using larger modules or dedicated space below deck, multi megawatt energy systems will also be available.

Installed effect can be used for the main propulsion systems, or for additional power supply on board the vessel to comply with green operation standards. Output effect will be dimensioned to provide optimal zero emission power in desired operating situations, sailing patterns and vessel type.

Quayside, the hydrogen system can ensure sufficient green power supply to the vessel, which does not need to rely on onshore charging infrastructure to achieve zero emission status.

The AiP means that the H2 system has been assessed by DNV and found to comply with the current rules of the class society and applicable statutory regulations. Further, it confirms that the design is feasible and that no significant obstacles exist to prevent it from being realized.

The basis for DNV’s AiP is compliance with the safety principles of DNV rules for fuel cell installations, gas fuelled ship installations, containerised systems, the IGF Code, and IMO interim guidelines for the safety of ships using fuel cell power installations.

The system is designed for operation in air temperatures between –20 to +35 C° and seawater temperature from 0 C° to +32C°.

Osnes said there is significant interest from shipowners in multiple industry sectors.

According to international vessel databases, including Sea-web and the European Commission’s Market Observation Inland Navigation in Europe, there are approximately 2,500 short sea cargo vessels, 7,000 inland water cargo vessels, 1,300 passenger transport vessels and 2,500 fishery vessels in Europe alone.