The Norwegian Maritime Authority has observed an increasing interest in using hydrogen as marine fuel and wants to work closely with the industry in the development of the new technology.
On 22 February the NMA participated in the NCE Maritime CleanTech cluster meeting in Haugesund, where the topic was the status of hydrogen technology for maritime use.
“It is our opinion that the use of hydrogen as marine fuel is fully achievable provided that the process is properly organised”, says Senior Surveyor Kolbjørn Berge. He leads a newly established project group at the NMA that focuses on new technology, and the NMA is well prepared for taking on new challenges.
“The legislation does not hinder the development. On the contrary, it allows for new and innovative thinking when it comes to design and development of technology. The important thing is that the overall safety level is as high as for conventional oil-powered machinery, and there will be requirements for risk analysis and explosion analysis to ensure safe use”, he adds.
He encourages anyone with good ideas to contact the NMA at an early stage of the process to make themselves familiar with the applicable rules.
Several interesting projects are underway too. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration, for instance, is in the process of challenging companies, shipyards and technology environments to construct a hydrogen-powered ferry. They are currently hosting a dialogue conference for relevant companies and suppliers. The project will enable zero emission technology for routes not suitable for electric operation only.
“We are very positive about cooperating with the industry in order to to realise the hydrogen project”, says Director General of Shopping and Navigation, Olav Akselsen.
Source & Image credit: NMA
