Norwegian shipyard Myklebust Verft has been selected by transport company Torghatten Nord to build two of the world’s largest hydrogen-powered ferries. These vessels, once operational, will primarily use hydrogen produced in Bodø.
The ferries, designed by The Norwegian Ship Design Company for the challenging conditions of Vestfjordstrekninga fjord within the Arctic Circle, are slated for delivery in 2026. Marius Hansen, Managing Director of Torghatten Nord, expressed enthusiasm about setting a new standard in maritime sustainability with these ships, highlighting their significant contribution to Norwegian technological and shipbuilding sectors.
Scheduled for Lloyd’s Register classification, these ferries were granted Approval in Principle (AiP) in August 2022. Leiv Sindre Muren, CEO of Myklebust Verft, emphasized the project’s role in showcasing Norwegian expertise and enhancing the nation’s maritime hydrogen infrastructure.
Transport Minister John-Ivar Nygård praised the agreement for demonstrating the competitiveness of Norwegian shipyards and their role in advancing zero-emission technology.
The ferries will be 117 meters in length with a capacity for 120 cars, making them the largest hydrogen-powered vessels globally. They will operate on green hydrogen at least 85% of the time along the 278km-long Vestfjordstrekninga route, which connects Bodø, Røst, Værøy, and Moskenes, at an average speed of 17 knots.
Hydrogen storage onboard will supply fuel cells that power both propulsion and auxiliary systems, expected to reduce CO2 emissions by about 26,500 tons annually. The vessels also include a biodiesel backup system, involving partnerships with LR, The Norwegian Ship Design Company, Myklebust Verft, systems integrator SEAM, and hydrogen supplier GreenH.
Nick Brown, CEO of LR, noted the significant interest in green hydrogen as a maritime fuel and emphasized the commitment to safety, reliability, and sustainability in the development of these ferries.
The Norwegian Maritime Authority will flag the vessels, with Alf Tore Sørheim, Acting Director General of Shipping and Navigation, recognizing the importance of these zero-emission vessels as milestones for Norwegian maritime innovation.
Gjermund Johannessen, CEO of The Norwegian Ship Design Company, expressed excitement about the construction of the ferries and the ongoing collaboration with Torghatten Nord and Myklebust Verft. He highlighted the unique safety features of the hydrogen systems and the potential of hydrogen in revolutionizing short-sea shipping.
This project marks a pivotal step in Norway’s pursuit of clean maritime technology, bringing together key industry players to foster advancements in hydrogen-fueled transportation.
