Ballard Power Systems announced on April 6 that its marine fuel cell module FCwave™ has received Europe’s first DNV Type Approval for marine fuel cells, issued by DNV Classification Society, the world’s leading classification and certification body.
This Type Approval marks an important step in the commercialization of Ballard's fuel cell technology for marine applications and is key to making fuel cells a zero-emission solution for the marine industry. Type approval involves a series of simulations and tests, and the process is very complex. FCwave™ was developed and manufactured by Ballard's Global Marine Center of Excellence in Hobro, Denmark, where simulation and testing for type approval was undertaken and completed.
Søren Østergaard Hansen, General Manager, Marine Division, Ballard Power Systems Europe, said: “The new certification for FCwave™ removes a significant hurdle in helping the marine industry deploy zero-emission technologies and meet global emissions reduction goals. Market confidence in hydrogen fuel cells is important and demonstrates that FCwave™ is designed, tested and ready for installation. Type-approved FCwave™ modules allow us to deliver the first deployable fuel cell solutions while helping The marine sector takes the next step towards zero-emission action.”
The International Maritime Organization has set stringent targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions from ships by at least 50% by 2050. The high-power FCwave™ module is a flexible solution that can support the energy needs of various types of ships as well as onshore power. The scalable 200kW power module provides a plug-and-play alternative to conventional diesel engines. This type approval proves that the FCwave™ modules are designed to meet the high specification safety, functionality, design and documentation requirements necessary for the global commercialization of marine applications.
