Is the maritime industry finally embracing a zero-emission future?
In a significant move towards sustainable shipping, the European Union has allocated €40 million to Energy Observer for the development of a liquid hydrogen-powered cargo vessel. This funding, awarded through the EU Innovation Fund, underscores the bloc’s commitment to decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors.
Energy Observer, renowned for its pioneering work in renewable energy, initiated the Energy Observer 2 (EO2) project in 2022. The EO2 is envisioned as a 160-metre container ship with a capacity of 1,100 TEU, powered by a 4.8 MW fuel cell system developed in collaboration with Toyota and EODev. Designed for short-sea shipping routes along Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts, the vessel aims to demonstrate the feasibility of liquid hydrogen as a maritime fuel.
The EU’s financial support was granted after EO2 was selected from 85 projects in the Innovation Fund’s €4.8 billion call for clean technology initiatives. This backing is pivotal for Energy Observer, as the total investment required for the project exceeds €100 million. The company has also received support from industry partners, including CMA CGM, Air Liquide, and Bureau Veritas, who have contributed to feasibility studies over the past two years.
Victorien Erussard, founder of Energy Observer, stated, “This funding is a significant milestone in our mission to revolutionise maritime transport. The EO2 project not only showcases the potential of hydrogen as a clean fuel but also reinforces Europe’s leadership in sustainable innovation.”
“The EO2 project not only showcases the potential of hydrogen as a clean fuel but also reinforces Europe’s leadership in sustainable innovation.”
The EO2 is expected to commence operations by 2029, with projections indicating a reduction of 112,250 tonnes of CO₂ emissions over a decade. This initiative aligns with the EU’s broader strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, highlighting the critical role of innovation in achieving environmental goals.
