Norwegian ferry operator Torghatten Nord and green hydrogen producer GreenH have signed a 15-year hydrogen supply agreement for the Lofoten ferries.
This deal ensures that the ferries on the Bodø-Moskenes-Værøy-Røst route will operate on green hydrogen from 2025 to 2040.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration estimates that the use of hydrogen ferries will reduce annual CO2 emissions by 26,500 tons, equivalent to the emissions from about 13,000 diesel cars.
Currently, large-scale green hydrogen production in Norway is limited. GreenH plans to establish a facility at Langstranda in Bodø to support the agreement. The facility will produce 6-10 tons of hydrogen per day and will also handle oxygen distribution and heat exchange for the district heating network.
The facility’s construction will cost approximately NOK 1 billion and create 10-30 jobs. GreenH’s CEO, Morten Solberg Watle, emphasized the project’s significance, stating it would position Bodø as a global leader in green energy solutions and enhance employment opportunities.
Torghatten Nord and GreenH’s joint efforts in developing the hydrogen ferries underline the importance of support from local and national authorities. “These ferries are pioneering technology, and we are reliant on collaboration amid global economic uncertainties and conflicts,” Torkild Torkildsen mentioned.
The hydrogen ferries will start operations in October 2025. Both companies are now focused on finalizing the project, with an eye on future green aviation and other innovative applications for surplus hydrogen and oxygen.