ABB Powers Hydrogen-Fueled Ships for Samskip's Green Revolution

22 Sep 2023 CW Team

Samskip Group's commitment to eco-friendly maritime transportation, centered in Rotterdam, highlights its leading role in environmentally conscious logistics.

Pioneering Hydrogen-Powered Innovation

These two container ships, each measuring 135 meters in length, represent a remarkable breakthrough in maritime technology. They are poised to become some of the world's first vessels of their kind to embrace hydrogen as their primary fuel source. ABB, a global leader in technology and automation solutions, will play a pivotal role in turning this vision into reality.

Comprehensive Power Solutions

ABB's contribution to this project encompasses the provision of a comprehensive power distribution system. This system includes the latest version of ABB's Onboard DC Grid? technology, which is specifically designed for compactness and efficiency. It ensures the optimal utilization of energy on board the ships.

Furthermore, these innovative vessels will incorporate ABB's energy storage solution control, enhanced by cutting-edge automation technology known as ABB Ability? System 800xA. This integration guarantees the seamless operation of onboard equipment. Additionally, the ships will benefit from ABB Ability? Remote Diagnostic Systems, offering 24/7 remote support to enhance safety and performance.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability Goals

The commitment of Samskip to environmental sustainability is evident in the choice of power source for these ships. Each container ship will be powered by a robust 3.2 MW hydrogen fuel cell, with diesel generators serving as a backup. This forward-thinking approach aligns with Samskip's ambitious goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.

When operating on hydrogen fuel cells and utilizing green shore power while at port, each ship is expected to reduce approximately 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Remarkably, these environmentally friendly vessels are anticipated to deliver the same level of performance as Samskip's conventional fleet.

A Sustainable Future for Maritime Transport

This project aligns seamlessly with the revised greenhouse gas reduction strategy of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO's vision is to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by around 2050, with a strong commitment to increasing the adoption of low-carbon fuels by 2030.

The initiative also receives support from ENOVA, a Norwegian state enterprise operating under Norway's Ministry of Climate and Environment. ENOVA shares the project's vision of transitioning toward greener energy consumption, advancing climate technology, and promoting environmentally friendly energy production.

ABB, a multinational corporation based in Sweden and Switzerland, is poised to provide an extensive power distribution system for the revolutionary hydrogen-powered container ships of the Samskip Group. These cutting-edge vessels, which are being constructed by Cochin Shipyard Ltd in India, are scheduled for delivery in the third and fourth quarters of 2025. They will operate along the Oslo Fjord to Rotterdam route, covering a distance of approximately 700 nautical miles. Samskip Group's commitment to eco-friendly maritime transportation, centered in Rotterdam, highlights its leading role in environmentally conscious logistics. Pioneering Hydrogen-Powered Innovation These two container ships, each measuring 135 meters in length, represent a remarkable breakthrough in maritime technology. They are poised to become some of the world's first vessels of their kind to embrace hydrogen as their primary fuel source. ABB, a global leader in technology and automation solutions, will play a pivotal role in turning this vision into reality. Comprehensive Power Solutions ABB's contribution to this project encompasses the provision of a comprehensive power distribution system. This system includes the latest version of ABB's Onboard DC Grid? technology, which is specifically designed for compactness and efficiency. It ensures the optimal utilization of energy on board the ships. Furthermore, these innovative vessels will incorporate ABB's energy storage solution control, enhanced by cutting-edge automation technology known as ABB Ability? System 800xA. This integration guarantees the seamless operation of onboard equipment. Additionally, the ships will benefit from ABB Ability? Remote Diagnostic Systems, offering 24/7 remote support to enhance safety and performance. Environmental Impact and Sustainability Goals The commitment of Samskip to environmental sustainability is evident in the choice of power source for these ships. Each container ship will be powered by a robust 3.2 MW hydrogen fuel cell, with diesel generators serving as a backup. This forward-thinking approach aligns with Samskip's ambitious goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. When operating on hydrogen fuel cells and utilizing green shore power while at port, each ship is expected to reduce approximately 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Remarkably, these environmentally friendly vessels are anticipated to deliver the same level of performance as Samskip's conventional fleet. A Sustainable Future for Maritime Transport This project aligns seamlessly with the revised greenhouse gas reduction strategy of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO's vision is to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by around 2050, with a strong commitment to increasing the adoption of low-carbon fuels by 2030. The initiative also receives support from ENOVA, a Norwegian state enterprise operating under Norway's Ministry of Climate and Environment. ENOVA shares the project's vision of transitioning toward greener energy consumption, advancing climate technology, and promoting environmentally friendly energy production.

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