Hexagon Purus joins ZECH to develop hydrogen value chain

Hexagon Purus has joined the Zero Emission Compressed Hydrogen (ZECH) work package, which is part of the ZeroCoaster project study, which is being directed by Vard, a leading worldwide ship design and shipbuilding firm.

The goal of this project is to investigate, analyze, and offer zero-emission ship design alternatives based on alternative fuel systems.

The Norwegian coastal bulk freight activities are represented by the ZeroCoaster. The project’s systems and component solutions may be scaled and reconfigured for use in various marine applications.

The Norwegian Research Council is funding the research investigation. One of the major goals is to test and evaluate bunkering technology and logistical operations in terms of safety, cost, and capacity. Hexagon Purus will offer its knowledge and expertise in compressed hydrogen gas storage and delivery using Type 4 composite cylinder technology.

Norway has set a goal of cutting emissions by half by 2030, and there is a rising demand for zero-emission vessels along the Norwegian coast. If Norway’s 2030 emissions reduction objective is to be met, 700 low-emission and about 400 zero-emission ships will be required, with 450 bulk and cargo ships being among them.

The goal of this project is to investigate and propose a cost-effective hydrogen value chain that will help to support and expedite the transition to zero-emission shipping solutions.

“We see extensive benefits of cooperating with Vard and the project partners,” says Hvard Stave, Technical Sales Manager Maritime, Hexagon Purus. We have the necessary technology to store and transport compressed hydrogen on a big scale, and we are eager to share our knowledge. It’s a great chance for us to learn from one another while also accelerating the transition to zero-emission maritime applications.”

Vard has already built a concept design platform for the ZeroCoaster cargo ship, which will be used in the project. The project will create economic and technical key performance indicators for the use of alternative fuels on ships using simulation-driven ship design.

The project is expected to be finished by the end of 2021.