Norwegian maritime developer LH2 Shipping has secured fresh funding from Enova to support the construction of two additional liquid hydrogen-powered bulk carriers, expanding its project pipeline to six vessels and strengthening efforts to commercialise zero-emission shipping.
The Bergen-based company has been awarded NOK 344.3 million ($36 million) to develop and build two 7,700 dwt shortsea bulk carriers designed to operate primarily on liquid hydrogen. The latest funding brings total public support for LH2 Shipping’s hydrogen shipping programme to more than NOK 800 million.
The vessels are intended for shortsea routes linking Norway with continental Europe and the Baltic region. According to the company, around half of all port calls will take place in Norway, while approximately 65% of sailing time will be spent in Norwegian waters.
Designed to operate emission-free throughout the year, the vessels will use liquid hydrogen as their primary fuel source, supplied through hydrogen producer Gen2 Energy’s facility in Mosjøen.
Each vessel will measure 108.2 metres in length with a beam of 18.1 metres and will be equipped with a 17-tonne liquid hydrogen storage tank, 3,400 kW PEM fuel cells and a 3 MWh battery system. Shore power connectivity and a backup generator capable of operating on diesel or biodiesel will also be installed.
LH2 Shipping said the ships are expected to consume at least 30% less energy than conventional vessels of comparable size through hull optimisation, improved propulsion systems and advanced energy management technologies. Solar panels installed on cargo hatch covers are also expected to contribute additional energy savings.
The project forms part of the company’s strategy to move hydrogen-powered shipping from pilot projects into commercially viable operations. Founded in 2023, LH2 Shipping builds on expertise gained through the development of MF Hydra, widely recognised as the world’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry.
The two vessels will be developed under the Strandbulk project, where LH2 Shipping serves as project owner and developer.
Commenting on the role of early adopters in maritime decarbonisation, Enova highlighted the importance of companies willing to invest in emerging technologies.
“If we are to succeed in the transition to low and zero-emission solutions in the maritime sector, we depend on players who dare to go first,” said Elin Ulstad Stokland, Head of Hydrogen and Ammonia Initiatives at Enova.
LH2 Shipping believes that tightening environmental regulations, including the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and FuelEU Maritime framework, will increasingly strengthen the commercial case for hydrogen-powered vessels over the coming decade.
As regulators and shipowners seek pathways to decarbonise maritime transport, the company sees liquid hydrogen as a key solution for achieving zero-emission operations in regional shipping markets.
Source: MaritimeMagz
