Advent Technologies will combine its HT-PEM fuel cell 50kW modules with Siemens Energy’s electrification and automation solutions for hybrid and electric vessels.
Under a multi-year joint development agreement (JDA), an integrated 500kW high-temperature PEM fuel cell solution for maritime applications will be developed, before either scaling the system up or down to fit market requirements ranging from motor and Giga Yachts to ferries and commercial ships.
Using Advent’s Ion-Pair™ membrane electrode assembly (MEA), initial prototype testing will take place at Siemens Energy’s Erlangen, Germany, testing facility next year (2025), with the first module expected to be completed in 2026.
Advent is now engaging customers within the maritime industry to explore the signing of commercial term sheets and will further pursue upcoming requests for proposals (RFPs).
Initially targeting large yachts, the two companies aim to eventually extend the solution to ferries and commercial vessels.
By combining fuel cell expertise with Siemens electrification and automation experience, the two will “collectively pave the way for a more sustainable future in maritime operations worldwide,” according to Advent’s Chairman and CEO, Dr Vasilis Gregoriou.
“After two years of intensive collaboration, we stand prepared for the next stage, with the goal of positioning high temperature (HT)-PEM fuel cell technology as a pivotal element in global decarbonisation initiatives, working towards achieving Net Zero emissions in the maritime sector by 2050,” he added.
Advent and Siemens Energy previously collaborated in 2022 on the Sanlorenzo Life Ocean pilot project, an initiative which saw the joint development of a marine HT-PEM fuel cell solution providing power for hotel functions on a superyacht.
Earlier this year (2024), NatPower H and Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) announced plans to install a hydrogen refuelling station this summer, suitable for refuelling the recreational boating sector.
Read more: NatPower H and ZHA to revolutionise yachting industry with hydrogen refuelling infrastructure
