LH2 Shipping's managing director, Ivan Østvik, highlighted the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel for newbuild vessels during a presentation at the Maritime Hybrid, Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Cell Conference in Bergen, Norway. Using the example of Hydra, the world's first liquid hydrogen-powered vessel operating in Norway, Østvik emphasized the importance of business cases in securing finance for such innovative projects. Factors influencing the choice of fuel included availability, technology, bunkering logistics, distance, and cost considerations, with a specific focus on well-to-wake efficiency and green hydrogen supply. The evaluation of various hydrogen technologies such as PEM fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells considered aspects like storage requirements, energy density, and safety. Grzegorz Pawelec from Hydrogen Europe discussed the latest EU regulations and funding opportunities for clean-hydrogen initiatives, highlighting financial sources like bank auctions and innovation funds. The upcoming EU funding series in 2024-2025 aims to support fuel production, bunkering, and supply for maritime applications, including pilot projects and retrofits for electric power, liquid hydrogen, and bioLNG on cruise and cargo ships. The conference provided insights into key trends, regulations, and the development of zero-emissions ecosystems in the maritime industry, showcasing a positive sentiment towards the adoption of hydrogen technology.