ABB and HDF Energy have entered a joint-development agreement (JDA) to create a powerful fuel cell unit designed for marine use. This new hydrogen fuel cell project is expected to support large vessels, including container feeder ships and ships that transport liquid hydrogen. This agreement builds on a previous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established in 2020.
The plan includes pilot installations set for 2028–2029, with mass production starting in 2030, marking an important move towards making fuel cells a practical choice for decarbonizing the maritime industry.
The collaboration merges ABB's expertise in system integration with HDF's skills in designing and manufacturing large fuel cells. HDF, based in France, will provide the fuel cell technology, while ABB will contribute power converters and management, as well as electrical and control integration. Both companies will work together on key specifications, the overall design, and business opportunities.
The introduction of this high-power fuel cell unit is expected to lower emissions from maritime vessels by enabling the construction of large hydrogen-electric ships. It will also allow existing ships to replace diesel generators with hydrogen fuel cells. By using green hydrogen, which is carbon-neutral, the environmental benefits will be substantial.
“At HDF, we are very excited to combine our fuel cell expertise with ABB’s knowledge of marine systems to create real solutions for decarbonizing shipping,” said Hanane El Hamraoui, CEO of HDF Energy.
“Our collaboration with HDF has been ongoing for several years, and we have made great strides towards a workable solution for reducing emissions from larger vessels,” said Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “ABB is fully committed to advancing technologies that promote maritime decarbonization, and this new agreement with HDF represents another vital step forward.”