Samskip, a leading European shipping company, has partnered in the EU Horizon Europe initiative, the HyEkoTank project. The company will retrofit its vessel, Samskip Kvitnos, with state-of-the-art hydrogen fuel cell technology developed by TECO 2030. This move supports Samskip’s goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.
Samskip Kvitnos: Navigating Environmentally Sensitive Waters
The Samskip Kvitnos sails on a fixed route from Rotterdam to Hammerfest along the Norwegian west coast. This region is one of Europe’s most environmentally sensitive areas. Samskip stays ahead of upcoming regulations by retrofitting the vessel with zero-emission fuel cells. These regulations include the FuelEU Maritime and EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). The retrofit also fulfills the need for zero emissions in Norwegian world heritage fjords by 2030.
Samskip’s Commitment to Sustainable Shipping
Samskip actively participates in the HyEkoTank project, one of many initiatives to reduce maritime carbon emissions. The company engages in several projects:
- Seashuttle project: Building hydrogen-powered container ships
- Develops and demonstrates a zero-emission coastal container ship
- Uses hydrogen fuel cells and electric propulsion
- Plans to be operational by 2024
- Use of biofuels to reduce emissions
- Samskip uses biofuels in its vessels to reduce CO2 emissions
- Derives biofuels from renewable sources such as vegetable oils and animal fats
- Uses biofuels as a drop-in fuel, requiring no modifications to existing engines
- Implementation of shore power and CO2 capture systems
- Connects vessels to the local electricity grid while in port using shore power
- Reduces emissions from auxiliary engines
- Captures and stores CO2 emissions from vessels using CO2 capture systems
- Prevents the release of CO2 into the atmosphere
Samskip works towards its decarbonization targets and shapes sustainable shipping’s future through advanced technologies and partnerships.
The HyEkoTank Project: Demonstrating the Potential of Hydrogen Technology
The HyEkoTank project, the world’s largest ongoing fuel cell retrofit effort, demonstrates hydrogen technology’s potential in reducing global maritime emissions. By retrofitting the Samskip Kvitnos, Samskip ensures compliance with upcoming regulations and future-proofs its fleet. This retrofit meets tomorrow’s energy needs while delivering tangible environmental benefits today.
Erik Hofmeester, Head of Vessel Management at Samskip, stated, “We have spent years pursuing sustainable fleet solutions. The retrofit of the Samskip Kvitnos aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of shipping. We work with TECO 2030 and the HyEkoTank consortium to ensure the Kvitnos meets zero-emission targets. The EU and Norwegian authorities set these targets while we provide reliable service for our customers.”
Samskip sets a powerful example as the maritime industry evolves and adapts to climate change challenges. The company leads the way for the industry with its commitment to sustainable shipping practices and innovative technologies.
Read More: World’s First Ship-to-Ship Ammonia Transfer
