In order to actualize the hydrogen-powered tanker concept HyEkoTank, the Norwegian cleantech company TECO 2030 has been invited to apply for Horizon Europe funding of €5 million ($4.8 million).

Shell International Exploration and Production BV, Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited, Blom Maritime AS, TECO Solutions AS, Umoe Advanced Composites AS (UAC), FKAB Marine Design, Neste Oyj, and UiT – The Arctic University of Norway are the partners in this project.

A 18.600 DWT product tanker will be retrofitted by the firms under the project with a 2.4 MW fuel cell system by TECO 2030 and a 4000 kg compressed hydrogen storage for a demonstration in 2024. According to the companies, this innovative concept might become a trailblazer in this area of maritime commerce and help the European Union meet its ambitious climate goals. The retrofit tanker concept is anticipated to show zero emissions at berth and a 60% decrease in GHG emissions throughout the journey.

The main research and innovation initiative of the European Union, Horizon Europe, has a budget of €95,5 billion and is a part of the EU’s long-term Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The EU has pledged as part of the European Green Deal to cut GHG emissions by 55% by 2030 and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

To match current laws with the 2030 and 2050 goals, the EU is now developing its climate, energy, and transportation-related legislation under the “Fit for 55 package.”