Rhenus Leading the Way: Hydrogen-Powered Barges Revolutionize Inland Shipping
Key Ideas
- Rhenus is conducting intensive testing on the first hydrogen-powered inland waterway vessels to ensure sustainability and technical excellence.
- The focus of the tests is on the fuel cell systems, modern battery systems, and powerful electric motors for efficiency and reliability.
- The innovative technologies, including hydrogen propulsion, all-electric bow thruster, and sophisticated electronic systems, are setting new standards in inland shipping.
- The UNECE has granted special approval for the use of hydrogen as propulsion, making Rhenus the first inland waterway vessel allowed to operate on the Rhine with hydrogen power.
Rhenus is currently in the crucial phase of shipyard test runs for its revolutionary hydrogen-powered barges, marking a significant step towards low-emission shipping. The testing focuses on ensuring the highest sustainability and technical standards for the vessels. The ships are equipped with a combination of fuel cell systems, modern battery systems, and powerful electric motors to optimize efficiency and reliability. Rhenus is pioneering innovative technologies, including hydrogen propulsion, all-electric bow thrusters, and sophisticated electronic systems, setting new benchmarks in inland shipping. The UNECE has granted special approval for using hydrogen as propulsion, positioning Rhenus as the first inland waterway vessel permitted to navigate the Rhine powered by hydrogen. The approval for transportation of dangerous goods is pending, with the final approval expected in the coming months, showcasing Rhenus' commitment to advancing environmentally friendly transportation.