Hydrogen Horizon: South Korean Shipbuilder and Shell Join Forces for Liquefied Hydrogen Carrier Innovation
Key Ideas
- Hyundai's partnership with Shell aims to develop a large-scale LH2 carrier by the 2030s for efficient intercontinental transport of hydrogen.
- Challenges such as liquefaction at -253℃ and higher energy requirements are being addressed through joint efforts in technology development.
- The collaboration involves expertise from KSOE in storage tanks and cargo systems, HHI in hydrogen-powered engines, and Shell in ship operations for cleaner energy solutions.
- Various LH2 carrier projects, including a 20,000-m3 carrier and plans for an 80,000-m3 carrier by 2030, indicate significant progress in LH2 transportation technology.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai is partnering with oil major Shell to advance liquefied hydrogen (LH2) carrier technologies. The joint development agreement between Hyundai subsidiaries KSOE and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Shell International Trading and Shipping Co Ltd aims to create a large-scale LH2 carrier by the 2030s for efficient intercontinental transport of hydrogen. Liquefying hydrogen at -253℃ poses technical challenges, but the collaboration intends to overcome these hurdles. KSOE will focus on storage tanks and cargo systems while HHI works on hydrogen-powered engines. Shell will provide expertise in ship operations. Both companies are optimistic about the potential of cleaner energy solutions in maritime shipping. Noteworthy LH2 carrier projects have already been initiated, including a 20,000-m3 carrier receiving approval in principle and plans for an 80,000-m3 carrier by 2030. This joint effort signifies significant progress in LH2 transportation technology, with various entities contributing to the advancement of green energy in the maritime industry.