ABB supplies technology for hydrogen-powered container ships

Zurich – The Samskip Group is planning to use container ships powered by hydrogen. ABB is equipping the first two ships with a complete solution for power supply, propulsion and automation.

The Samskip Group is having two 135-meter hydrogen-powered container ships built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd in India. They will be used on the approximately 700-nautical-mile route between the Oslofjord and Rotterdam. ABB will supply a complete power supply, propulsion and automation solution for the two vessels, the Zurich-based technology company informed in a statement.

Specifically, ABB was contracted to integrate the hydrogen fuel cells and the power distribution system. The Zurich-based company is using a new, compact version of its Onboard DC Grid system. The scope of supply also includes a digital operating system for ABB energy storage systems with automation technology, the ABB Ability System 800xA for seamless operation of onboard equipment, and the ABB Ability Remote Diagnostic System for remote support. ABB is not disclosing details about the financial volume of the order booked in the second quarter.

“ABB is very pleased to be working with Samskip and Cochin Shipyard Limited on this project to reduce emissions and lower operating costs,” Juha Koskela, head of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, was quoted as saying in the release. “ABB is involved in the most ambitious shipping decarbonization projects and is setting new standards for green shipping.” Samskip aims to operate emission-free by 2040. According to Erik Hofmeester, head of fleet management at Samskip Group, the logistics group “cannot achieve this goal without partners like ABB who share our desire to innovate and invest in the future.” ce/hs