Samskip to retrofit vessel with hydrogen fuel cells

The intra-European shortsea multimodal operator Samskip has announced plans to retrofit its multipurpose vessel Samskip Kvitnos with hydrogen fuel cell technology developed by Norway-based cleantech company TECO 2030.  The initiative will be carried out in partnership with the HyEkoTank project, an ongoing fuel cell retrofit effort supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme.

“We have spent years actively pursuing sustainable solutions across our fleet, and this retrofit of the Samskip Kvitnos aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of shipping,” said Erik Hofmeester, Head of Vessel Management at Samskip. “Working alongside TECO 2030 and the HyEkoTank consortium, we are ensuring that the Kvitnos not only meets but stays ahead of the zero-emission targets set by the EU and Norwegian authorities, all while continuing to provide reliable service for our customers.”

The Samskip Kvitnos operates on a fixed route from Rotterdam along the Norwegian west coast to Hammerfest. The decision to retrofit the vessel with zero-emission fuel cells will ensure Samskip Kvitnos stays ahead of upcoming regulations, including the FuelEU Maritime and EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), while also addressing the need for zero emissions in Norwegian world heritage fjords by 2030, Samskip explained. The retrofit of the Norwegian-flagged Samskip Kvitnos, which is powered by natural gas, is scheduled for completion in 2025.

“Our collaboration with TECO 2030 is a key part of our journey to achieving net zero by 2040,” Hofmeester continued. “By investing in retrofitting existing vessels like the Samskip Kvitnos, we are maximizing the environmental impact of our operations while ensuring long-term sustainability and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry.”

The move is part of the company’s efforts to reach net zero emissions by 2040. In addition, Samskip is building two zero-emission shortsea container vessel set to be powered by hydrogen. Samskip ordered two green hydrogen-powered boxships at Cochin back in March 2023. The hydrogen-fuel-powered ships will create green corridors between the European continent and the Scandinavian region. The project is supported by Innovation Norway and ENOVA, the Norwegian state enterprise coming under the Ministry of Climate and the Environment.