Maritime Applications for Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Seaport operations require significant power to support onshore equipment and vessels at berth. Sandia evaluates the feasibility of using fuel cells for this purpose, including to supply power for docked container ships, tugs, and refrigerated containers.

Our research has led to the construction and deployment of the first containerized fuel cell system, the MarFC, used for powering refrigerated containers at Honolulu Harbor and providing onshore power for a Scripps Institution of Oceanography research vessel. These deployments have demonstrated the operational viability and requirements of fuel cells in these settings.

Sandia assesses the feasibility of using hydrogen fuel cells to provide propulsion power for maritime vessels of different types, including high-speed ferries and oceanographic research vessels. These studies have led to the design and construction of the Sea Change, the world’s first commercial 100% hydrogen fuel cell ferry, and the design of the Scripps CCRV vessel. These projects introduced hydrogen propulsion technology to the United States Coast Guard and maritime classification societies that help governing bodies develop regulations for new maritime fuels.

Sandia uses computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models to study what happens when hydrogen is released from different storage systems, such as high-pressure and liquid hydrogen tanks, as well as within fuel cell rooms. The research looks at how factors like wind can affect how hydrogen spreads during outdoor releases on ships and how proper ventilation can help manage indoor releases in fuel cell rooms.

Such studies provide a scientific basis to inform safety regulations and standards. Past studies were carried out with input from the United States Coast Guard and classification societies aiming to improve hydrogen safety standards in maritime settings.