On the HIMET (Hydrogen in an Integrated Maritime Energy Transition) Project, Advanté has collaborated with OakTec to deliver a zero-emission, portable cruise terminal building to Kirkwall Harbour in Orkney.
This ground-breaking project combines Advanté’s hybrid solar technology with OakTec’s new hydrogen engine to show how efficient technologies can help with maritime decarbonization.
Following successful collaboration with the CAGE (Clean Air Gas Engine) project partners, Advanté became involved in the HIMET Project, delivering sustainable welfare to HS2 as part of the Clean Air Programme. This new project in Orkney is one of 55 that have been selected for funding through the Department of Transport’s flagship Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, which is run in collaboration with Innovate UK.
The HIMET Project has brought together OakTec and Advanté, as well as a group of industry experts, including lead partner EMEC (European Marine Energy Centre), to demonstrate technologies that enable maritime decarbonization. Orkney is a global hub for marine energy expertise and hydrogen research, and EMEC is a key player in the continued growth of wave and tidal energy as a renewable energy source.
The HIMET initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions from onshore and offshore maritime activities such as ferries and cruise terminal operations.
The project presented an exciting opportunity to construct a new cruise terminal building for Hatston Pier, near Kirkwall, in order to reduce maritime-related carbon and assist the United Kingdom in meeting its net-zero goals.
Based on the Oasis EcoMax Solar welfare unit setup, Advanté designed and built a 10 meter two-story portable building. An external staircase connects the two units, which provide a reception area on the ground floor and office space on the top floor for cruise passengers and pier staff. Advanté’s hybrid solar hydrogen power system is used to harness, store, and supply renewable energy to the units all year long.
OakTec created a new hydrogen engine that produces only water vapour in the exhaust and uses hydrogen as a clean fuel alternative with zero carbon emissions. This ground-breaking engine was integrated into the ground-floor unit’s hybrid power system to supplement the carbon-free energy generated by the unit’s solar technology.
The structure was designed to provide a comfortable environment for everyone by allowing as much natural light into the unit as possible without jeopardizing the steel structure. It’s heated and cooled with low-energy climate-controlled air source heating throughout.
The cruise terminal building will be connected to a hydrogen tank, produced offshore by wind farms and wave farms. This innovative and portable structure will serve as a welcoming and sheltered “meet and greet” point with a seated reception area for visitors and staff overlooking the harbour.
