NEWS
Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Ocean Unveil Advanced Marine Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Seoul, South Korea – Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Ocean have announced a groundbreaking joint venture to develop hydrogen fuel cells aimed at revolutionizing the maritime industry. This strategic partnership seeks to position the companies at the forefront of the eco-friendly ship market, offering a zero-carbon solution through cutting-edge technology.
Hanwha Aerospace has been selected to spearhead the “Development of a Fuel Cell Power Pack for Ships of 200 kW or Higher,” an initiative under the 2024 Energy Technology Development Project led by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. This project, exclusively managed by the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning, underscores Hanwha Aerospace’s commitment to high-efficiency and high-durability hydrogen fuel cells tailored for marine environments.
Leveraging Aviation Technology for Maritime Applications
Building on its expertise in aviation hydrogen fuel cell systems, Hanwha Aerospace is transitioning this advanced technology to the marine sector. This move aims to enhance fuel cell efficiency and durability, critical for the demanding conditions at sea. The company’s high scores in developing high-performance fuel cells are indicative of its potential to lead this sector.
Hanwha Ocean, as a joint research institute, will focus on optimizing the operational aspects of ships equipped with these marine hydrogen fuel cells. This includes deriving the best operational strategies to ensure these vessels perform efficiently and reliably.
Strategic Developments for Eco-Friendly Shipping
The partnership between Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Ocean is set to produce a megawatt-hour (MWh) class energy storage system (ESS) suitable for large ships, such as liquefied natural gas carriers (LNGCs) and very large crude oil carriers (VLCCs). This development is a strategic response to the anticipated surge in demand for eco-friendly ship technologies.
Leadership Speaks
Seunghak Moon, Head of Hanwha Aerospace’s Electric Propulsion System Division, emphasized the synergy between the companies: “We plan to expand our aviation hydrogen fuel cell technology to the marine sector. With Hanwha Ocean, we aim to create the world’s best marine hydrogen fuel cell and develop a comprehensive carbon-free shipping solution.”
Kim Hyeong-seok, Head of Hanwha Ocean’s Product Strategy Technology Center, highlighted their pioneering role: “By launching the industry’s first carbon-free large ship using our high-efficiency, high-durability hydrogen fuel cells and Hanwha Aerospace’s MWh-class ESS, we are solidifying our leadership in the global eco-friendly ship market.”
A Vision for Sustainable Maritime Solutions
This collaboration is part of a broader vision to accelerate decarbonization in the maritime sector. By combining ammonia-to-power technology with Hanwha’s expertise in shipbuilding and hydrogen fuel cell systems, the partnership aims to set new standards for clean energy. The use of ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel promises significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and represents a scalable solution for sustainability in maritime transportation.
