ABB and Hydrogène de France (HDF) will manufacture a megawatt-scale fuel cell system capable of powering ocean-going vessels.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that envisages close collaboration on the assembly and production of the fuel cell power plant for marine applications.

The new system will be based on the megawatt-scale fuel cell power plant jointly developed by ABB and Ballard, and will be manufactured at HDF’s new facility in Bordeaux, France.

Damien Havard, CEO of HDF said: “HDF is very excited to cooperate with ABB to assemble and produce megawatt-scale fuel cell systems for the marine market based on Ballard technology.”

ABB marine & ports managing director, Juha Koskela added: “With the ever-increasing demand for solutions that enable sustainable, responsible shipping, we are confident that fuel cells will play an important role in helping the marine industry meet CO2 reduction targets.“

Fuel cells are widely considered as one of the most promising solutions for reducing harmful pollutants. This zero-emission technology is capable of powering ships sailing short distances, as well as supporting auxiliary energy requirements of larger vessels.