Energy Observer’s ambition to create the largest hydrogen-powered cargo ship has gained momentum with a €40 million (US$42 million) grant from the European Union’s Innovation Fund.
This funding marks significant progress for the project, aimed at constructing a containership known as EO2. The ship is designed to be 160 meters long and capable of carrying 1,100 TEU, setting a high standard for low carbon emissions in cargo shipping.
Energy Observer has been pioneering green technology since 2017 with its laboratory vessel that combines solar, wind, and hydropower. This vessel showcased the potential for zero-emission travel, and now, the focus is on transforming this research into a practical cargo shipping solution. Didier Boix, Managing Director of EO Concept, highlighted the complexity of managing a 4.8 MW power system on the EO2, likening it to operating a fleet of one hundred hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Launching this cutting-edge vessel will require over €100 million, which includes comprehensive studies and construction costs. The project was submitted to the EU Innovation Fund as part of a wider initiative to promote clean technologies in traditionally hard-to-decarbonize sectors.
The EO2 is expected to have a 14-day range and cover 1,600 nautical miles, powered by hydrogen fuel cells developed in collaboration with EODev and Toyota. These fuel cells, arranged in 12 modules of 400 kW each, will help the ship achieve speeds of up to 16 knots. Though it will weigh about 12,000 dwt, a relatively small crew of 18 will operate the vessel. Over a decade, it’s projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 112,250 tons.
The project has received financial backing from several key partners. Initial funding came from Accor, joined by CMA CGM, Air Liquid, and several industry leaders like Toyota and LMG Marin. Together, they aim to assess the technical and economic feasibility of using liquid hydrogen for short maritime routes, reinforcing Europe’s leadership in the transition to sustainable technologies.
