HDF will design and manufacture 1MW fuel cell units at its Blanquefort facility, overseeing certification, testing and commercialisation. The systems will be scalable, allowing multiple units to be combined to power larger vessels.

ABB will be responsible for system integration, ensuring the fuel cells are compatible with onboard power and propulsion systems.

HDF has been backed with up to €168.8m ($198m) in French state support under an EU Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) contract.

The funding under the Hy2Move IPCEI program will enable HDF to industrialise the fuel cells at its Blanquefort facility, which includes a high-power test platform and can already produce units with a power output of 1MW or more for global deployment.

“By combining ABB’s world-class marine systems capabilities with HDF’s leadership in hydrogen-powered solutions, we will be delivering a system capable of powering the next generation of zero-emission vessels,” claimed Hanane El Hamraoui, CEO of HDF.

The companies added that the technology will give ship owners another zero-emission option for ferries, cruise ships, container ships, and offshore vessels in an industry responsible for around 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.