Bureau Veritas Greenlights ZEPH2 Boat Project Pioneering Hydrogen in Offshore Operations
Key Ideas
  • Bureau Veritas grants approval for the ZEPH2 hybrid hydrogen-powered vessel designed for offshore wind farm maintenance, a key step towards commercial launch.
  • The project, led by Zéphyr et Borée and a consortium of key players, aims to reduce CO2 emissions by over 50% compared to conventional diesel vessels, with significant annual fuel savings.
  • The vessel will feature 800 kW fuel cells and carry 350 kg of hydrogen, contributing to the goal of cutting carbon and pollutant emissions in offshore operations amid France's growing wind energy sector.
  • Funded by various entities, including ERDF and regional agencies, the ZEPH2 project signifies a leap forward in sustainable marine transportation, aligning with France's ambitions for 45 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2050.
Bureau Veritas recently gave its approval in principle for the ZEPH2 boat project, a groundbreaking initiative in the realm of hydrogen-powered vessels designed for offshore wind turbine maintenance. Led by Zéphyr et Borée and a consortium of five key players, including Piriou and Entech, the project aims to revolutionize offshore operations by significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The vessel, equipped with 800 kW fuel cells and capable of carrying 350 kg of hydrogen, is expected to cut annual CO2 emissions by 670 tonnes compared to traditional diesel vessels, while also saving 250 m³ of diesel per year. This move towards hybrid hydrogen-powered boats comes at a crucial time as France targets substantial growth in offshore wind energy. With ambitions set for 45 GW of installed capacity by 2050, such sustainable vessels will play a vital role in transporting personnel and equipment to offshore sites while minimizing environmental impact. The ZEPH2 project, supported by various organizations and funded by entities like ERDF and regional agencies, represents a significant step forward in promoting renewable energy and sustainability in marine transportation. This development underscores the industry's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and embracing innovative solutions in line with global environmental goals.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.