Hydrogen de France (HDF Energy) and naval architect CLYD have joined forces to establish HYNAVAL. This new company is dedicated to the design and retrofitting of hydrogen-powered boats, marking a noteworthy step toward eco-friendly maritime mobility.
A Vision for Hydrogen Boats
HYNAVAL, nestled within the naval center of the Grand Port Maritime de Bordeaux in Les Bassins à flot, aims to be at the forefront of the hydrogen boat revolution. At its core, HYNAVAL will operate a specialized shipyard responsible for crafting, producing, and retrofitting boats powered by hydrogen, offering an emissions-free alternative to traditional marine propulsion.
This collaboration is a meeting of two industry titans. CLYD, with its vast experience in naval architecture and engineering, complements HDF Energy’s prowess in high-power hydrogen fuel cells. HDF Energy, a key player in hydrogen infrastructure development with a decade of experience, now solidifies its position as a designer and manufacturer of high-power fuel cells for maritime applications.
One notable project on HYNAVAL’s horizon is the manufacturing of the future Bordeaux public river shuttles, known as the Batcub, following their successful bid in the Bordeaux Métropole Call for Tenders. These vessels will be equipped with a hydrogen propulsion system developed by HDF Energy, setting a new standard for clean and sustainable maritime transport.
The Immense Potential of Hydrogen at Sea
The potential of hydrogen in the maritime sector is colossal. As the world seeks more sustainable solutions, hydrogen stands out as a viable option for reducing emissions in the maritime and river transport industries. With hydrogen’s capacity to provide clean and efficient propulsion, it has become the fuel of choice for vessels seeking to lower their carbon footprint.
Damien Harvard, Founder and Chairman of HDF Energy expressed his commitment to this mission, stating, “By combining CLYD’s know-how in the manufacture, modernization, and maintenance of recreational craft with HDF Energy’s expertise in high-power hydrogen fuel cells, we are committed to offering the maritime and inland waterway market competitive propulsion solutions for environmentally friendly boats, thanks to hydrogen.”
Exequiel Cano Lanza, founder and chairman of CLYD Group, also recognized hydrogen’s potential, saying, “The potential of hydrogen in the maritime market is simply immense. We are delighted to partner with HDF Energy, a renowned expert in the field of hydrogen, to design hydrogen propulsion solutions adapted to the requirements of tomorrow’s international maritime market.”
