Cruise Shipowners Exploring Batteries and Fuel Cells for Sustainable Voyages
Key Ideas
- MSC Cruise Management is evaluating hybrid propulsion and hydrogen fuel cells to reduce emissions and environmental impact.
- Solid-oxide fuel cells have been tested on a cruise ship, showcasing the potential of generating energy from hydrogen.
- Future plans involve scaling up the technology to power next-generation cruise ships with MW of energy.
- Batteries are also being considered for onboard systems to reduce emissions and supplement engine power.
Cruise shipowners, including MSC Cruise Management, are looking into innovative technologies like batteries and fuel cells to make their vessels more environmentally friendly. Giovanni Somma, the director of newbuilds, research, and development at MSC, discusses the company's focus on reducing emissions through alternative fuels. They are exploring the use of hybrid propulsion systems and hydrogen fuel cells for their cruise ships. During an interview at Riviera's Maritime Hybrid, Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Cell Conference in Bergen, Norway, Mr. Somma highlighted the successful testing of solid-oxide fuel cells on a cruise ship to generate energy from hydrogen. The company is now considering implementing this technology on a larger scale to power their upcoming cruise ships with megawatts of energy. Additionally, MSC is also looking at integrating batteries on board to support onboard systems and enhance engine power in the future. This shift towards sustainable technologies showcases a positive outlook within the cruise industry towards reducing emissions and embracing cleaner energy sources.
Topics
Fuel Cells
Innovation
Alternative Fuels
Emissions
Power Generation
Sustainable
Environmental Footprint
Cruise Industry
Vessel Investments
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