Hydrogen barge sets sail on Rhine

The H2 Barge 2 is the result of a collaboration between Dutch owner Future Proof Shipping, and the Flagships and ZEM Ports NS projects, funding by the EU and Interreg respectively.

“This proves moving cargo with zero emissions and zero impact is not only possible, it’s scalable too,” said Future Proof Shipping chief executive, Richard Klatten.

“This vessel now sets the standard for inland shipping and beyond.”

Successful retrofit

The H2 Barge 2 is the first of two demonstrators in the EU-funded Flagships project, and the second demonstrator of the ZEM Ports NS project. The vessel was originally built as a conventionally powered containership before undergoing a retrofit last year at Holland Shipyards Group in Werkendam in the Netherlands.

The barge now has a new emission-free propulsion system including PEM fuel cells, hydrogen storage, battery packs and an electric drive train installed below deck. Six fuel cells from Ballard Power Systems raise the total power installed to 1.2 MW.

H2 Barge 2 is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 3,000 tonnes annually when sailing between Rotterdam and Duisburg, a route which accounts for 80% of all cargo flow on the Rhine.

The second demonstrator vessel in the Flagships project, Zulu 06, will be deployed in Paris in 2024.

Sharing this pivotal moment with FPS were project partners Holland Shipyards Group, Ballard Power Systems, the Port of Rotterdam, Expertise- en InnovatieCentrum Binnenvaart, Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association, WaterborneTP, NSHyMap, RH2INE and Maritime CleanTech.