Helion Hydrogen Power’s FC-Rack Marine system has received Approval in Principle from Bureau Veritas. The zero-emission hydrogen-powered electric generator is specified for maritime applications and will provide marine developers with a fuel cell solution suitable for decarbonization of the sector.
The AiP is the result of close collaboration between Helion and Bureau Veritas, aimed at safely deploying hydrogen as an energy source for propulsion and shore-to-ship power supplies. The work carried out has enabled Helion (a subsidiary of Alstom) to ensure that its sixth generation of hydrogen fuel cells complies with Bureau Veritas rules corresponding to the use of fuel cells on board ships.
Safe marinization is ensured thanks to a double envelope enclosure which enables the system to be perfectly sealed in a saline environment. In addition, the new FC-Rack Marine incorporates a thermal management system, a dedicated onboard control system and a hydrogen safety system that enables the generator to be installed inside or on the deck of the vessel. Furthermore, its vertical architecture facilitates ease-of-access during maintenance operations.
“This new generation of fuel cells is in line with our pillars which are: durability, safety and maintainability,” said Vincent Maheo, president of Helion Hydrogen Power. “The substantive work that has been carried out along with our certifying partner confirms our belief that the product meets the requirements of the maritime sector. The latter also suggests that our FC-Rack Marine will quickly obtain final approval. This certificate will lead to the industrialization of the FC-Rack Marine in order to provide a reliable and robust solution to our customers in the marine industry in their decarbonization ambitions. The story does not end there since our fuel cell system has already been selected in marine projects in real-world conditions.”
“Our role as a Class society is to enable our customers to tackle the energy transition,” added Laurent Leblanc, senior vice president, Technical & Operations, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore. “We use our expertise to help advance safe innovation and to make possible solutions for tomorrow. Collaborating with Helion on the zero-emission hydrogen-powered electric generator is very stimulating. We look forward to continuing the partnership and support the industry decarbonization’s journey.”
Helion’s marine-certified fuel cell will be operational by the end of 2023 and will supply zero-emission power to a dredger operating in the Occitanie Region and built by Piriou shipyard. For this hybrid diesel-hydrogen dredger, Helion’s 200kW FC-Rack will provide the energy required for life on board when the vessel is at berth and will partly supply the power needed for the propulsion during dredging activities.
