Hydrogen-fuelled shipping takes step forward as BeHydro’s engine gets go-ahead

UK-based classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) has given its stamp of approval for a 100% hydrogen-fuelled, spark-ignited marine engine developed by BeHydro, a joint venture between CMB.TECH and Anglo Belgian Corporation (ABC) Engines, focusing on hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines.

Lloyd’s Register has issued the first type approval certificate for BeHydro’s 100% hydrogen engine, confirming the design meets LR’s requirements for safety, performance and reliability in marine applications. This approval is said to mark a significant step in the certification and commercial readiness of hydrogen-fuelled propulsion technology for maritime applications.

The engine, which has been developed and tested at ABC Engines’ facility in Ghent, is designed to operate entirely on hydrogen, without the need for pilot fuels. This is perceived to simplify system design and remove onboard carbon emissions at source, positioning the technology as a practical option for operators exploring zero-carbon propulsion.

Claudene Sharp-Patel, Global Technical Director at Lloyd’s Register, commented: “The issue of this type approal certificate demonstrates that hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engine technology is continuing to mature as a viable option for maritime applications.

“For shipowners and operators, independent certification is essential in building confidence that emerging fuel technologies can meet the industry’s expectations for safety, reliability and operational performance.”

LR previously awarded type approval to BeHydro in 2023 for its hydrogen-powered dual-fuel engine, which was the first type approval for a dual-fuel hydrogen engine.

Tim Berckmoes, CEO at ABC Engines, underlined: “This LRS type approval of our BeHydro 100% hydrogen engines with zero emissions is a confirmation of the future proof technology that BeHydro can offer to innovative shipowners worldwide. The 100% hydrogen engine range is available from 900 kW till 2670 kW for different marine applications.”

The classification society has published a report in its ‘Fuel for thought’ series, providing a comprehensive assessment of hydrogen’s potential role in maritime decarbonization, highlighting the fuel’s advantages alongside the safety, infrastructure and cost challenges that currently restrict its adoption.

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