ABB Powers Samskip's Hydrogen Ships

ABB India Limited recently won an order from Netherlands-based global logistics company Samskip for the supply of a comprehensive power distribution system for two innovative shortsea container ships. These ships will be pioneers in using hydrogen as their primary fuel source, marking an important step towards decarbonizing the shipping industry.

Hydrogen fuel cell technology is gaining importance as a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency in the maritime sector. ABB, a leading electrification and automation company, Samskip will deliver a compact version of its ABB Onboard DC Grid? power distribution system to optimize energy consumption on board. In addition, ABB's energy storage solution is control, the Ability? System 800xA, will be integrated into the project. The vessels will benefit from improved safety and performance, including 24/7 remote support via ABB's Ability? Remote diagnostic systems.

Juha Koskela, Division President of ABB Marine & Ports, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and highlighted the potential to reduce emissions and reduce operational costs. Cochin Shipyard Ltd is responsible for the construction of these two 135-metre vessels, with completion scheduled for the third and fourth quarters of 2025. The project is financially supported by the Norwegian state-owned company ENOVA and the vessels will operate between the Oslofjord and Rotterdam, over a distance of approximately 700 nautical miles, in line with the International Maritime Organization's revised greenhouse gas reduction strategy.

Samskip's vessels will be equipped with 3.2 MW hydrogen fuel cells, supplemented by diesel generators for backup power. This innovative approach is expected to enable each vessel to avoid emitting around 25,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, mainly achieved by using fuel cells and greenshore power when docking at the port of call.

Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited, expressed pride in working with ABB to strengthen their position as pioneers in sustainable technology and support India's ambition to become a global hub for building eco-friendly vessels.