TU Delft Hydro Motion Team Makes Historic North Sea Crossing in Hydrogen-Powered Vessel
Key Ideas
  • Dutch students from TU Delft Hydro Motion Team successfully crossed the North Sea from the Netherlands to England in a fully hydrogen-powered vessel on July 11, 2024.
  • Despite facing initial setbacks, including technological issues and a failed cooling pump, the team persevered and completed the 169-kilometer journey using only 12.3 kilograms of hydrogen.
  • The project showcased the efficiency and potential of hydrogen-powered maritime travel, setting a new standard for sustainable maritime technology and contributing to green energy alternatives in the industry.
  • The team's emphasis on durability, reliability, and meticulous preparations, along with the assistance from partners and cutting-edge networking solutions, ensured the success of the groundbreaking crossing.
In a historic achievement, the TU Delft Hydro Motion Team, comprised of Dutch students, accomplished the first-ever crossing of the North Sea from the Netherlands to England in a vessel powered solely by hydrogen. The voyage, completed on July 11, 2024, covered approximately 169 kilometers on a single hydrogen tank. While their initial attempt on July 9 was halted due to technical issues and adverse weather forecasts, the team did not give up and successfully sailed on their second try. Despite facing challenges such as a cooling pump failure at the start of the second attempt, quick repairs and support from the ground team allowed them to resume the journey. The specially designed hydrogen-powered boat featured enhanced hull design and increased hydrogen tank capacity, showcasing the team's focus on durability and efficiency. With meticulous planning and the use of only 12.3 kilograms of hydrogen for the entire journey, the team demonstrated the effectiveness of hydrogen-powered maritime travel. The successful arrival in Ramsgate marked a milestone in promoting green energy alternatives in the maritime industry. The project encountered hurdles related to jurisdiction, logistics, and safety, which were managed through rigorous preparations and adherence to strict protocols. Weather played a crucial role in determining the journey's timing, with the team seizing the designated 'weather window' in the second week of July. The collaboration with Frontier BV for networking solutions was instrumental in the successful completion of the voyage. Overall, the TU Delft Hydro Motion Team's achievement not only highlights the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source for maritime transport but also establishes a new benchmark for environmentally friendly maritime technology. The project's success underscores the importance of innovation, collaboration, and dedication in driving the shift towards greener practices in the maritime sector.
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