Glosten, in collaboration with Siemens Energy, has chosen Ballard Power Systems and Chart Industries as primary equipment vendors for the world’s first hydrogen-hybrid research vessel. The vessel, currently in the design phase and named the CCRV, will be owned and operated by UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography (Scripps).
The primary goal of the CCRV is to pioneer a hydrogen-fuel-cell propulsion system, marking a significant shift toward sustainable and zero-emission marine research. Ballard Power Systems will provide the crucial fuel cells, while Chart Industries will supply the cryogenic tank and fuel gas system, essential components for bunkering and conditioning liquid hydrogen fuel for the fuel cells.
This innovative approach aims to enable extended zero-emissions operation during scientific missions along the California coast, aligning with Scripps’ commitment to clean operations and sustainability goals.
Glosten’s choice of Ballard Power Systems and Chart Industries as equipment vendors is rooted in their renowned expertise in hydrogen technologies. The collaboration is seen as a natural fit for a project of this uniqueness, ensuring seamless integration with the engineering team as they delve into the intricate details of the CCRV design.
Tim Leach, the principal naval architect at Glosten leading the CCRV design effort, expressed confidence in the selected vendors, emphasizing their invaluable experience in hydrogen technologies that will play a crucial role in shaping the success of this pioneering project.
Glosten has a longstanding partnership with Scripps, spanning over sixty years, during which the engineering and design firm has provided support for various oceanographic research vessels. This includes the midlife refit of the R/V Roger Revelle, modifications to the R/V Sally Ride, Melville, and New Horizon, and the design of the recently retired Floating Instrument Platform (FLIP).
The journey towards the CCRV began in 2018 when Glosten, contracted by Sandia National Laboratories, conducted a feasibility study for a zero-emission, hydrogen-fuel-cell coastal research vessel. The success of the Zero-V concept, developed in collaboration with Scripps, laid the foundation for the CCRV project. In 2022, Glosten secured the contract to develop a comprehensive design package for the CCRV, solidifying its commitment to advancing sustainable marine research.
