A new project launched by a consortium of Dutch companies and supported by the government aims to develop the world’s first zero-emission general cargo ship powered by liquid hydrogen.
The H2ESTIA project, led by the Dutch Innovation Company (NIM) aims to design, construct, and demonstrate a hydrogen-powered cargo vessel capable of operating in the North Sea and beyond.
Moreover, the vessel will feature a newly designed cryogenic hydrogen storage and bunkering system, ensuring safe handling and storage of liquid hydrogen at ultra-low temperatures.
A hydrogen fuel cell system, complemented by battery storage, will serve as the ship’s primary propulsion mechanism. In addition, the vessel will incorporate wind-assisted propulsion and waste heat recovery systems, minimizing hydrogen consumption and optimizing energy use.
The project will also leverage digital twin technology to create a real-time virtual model of the ship, enabling continuous monitoring, operational optimization, and enhanced safety protocols.
By integrating hydrogen technology with digital innovation, we are proving that zero-emission shipping is not just a vision—it is an achievable reality.
…said Sander Roosjen, CTO, NIM.
