Can Megawatt Hydrogen Fuel Cells Power the Next Era of Shipping?

ABB and HDF Energy advance megawatt hydrogen fuel cells, seen by industry observers as a key step toward scalable clean power for ships

17 Dec 2025

Europe’s shipping industry is moving closer to practical zero-emission power as megawatt-scale hydrogen fuel cells shift from concept to early development, driven by a partnership between ABB and HDF Energy.

The two companies are working on high-power hydrogen fuel cell systems designed specifically for maritime use, addressing one of the main barriers to decarbonising shipping: the need for large, continuous energy output. Unlike fuel cells developed for road transport, the systems are intended to meet the demands of commercial vessels operating over long distances.

Industry observers view the collaboration as a sign that hydrogen is being taken more seriously as a scalable solution for shipping, particularly as shipowners face tightening emissions rules and limited options beyond efficiency improvements and alternative fuels.

Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction rather than combustion, producing water as the only byproduct. For ship operators, this offers the prospect of zero-emission power without reliance on fossil fuels, while reducing exposure to volatile fuel prices and future regulatory costs.

The partnership brings together complementary capabilities. ABB has extensive experience in marine power systems, ship electrification and onboard integration. HDF Energy focuses on fuel cell technology designed for high-load, continuous operation, a requirement for large vessels. The companies say the aim is to develop systems that can be integrated into existing ship designs while meeting safety and reliability standards required by maritime regulators.

Despite growing interest, commercial deployment remains some way off. The companies expect pilot projects to begin in the late 2020s, with wider adoption envisaged around 2030. This reflects both the technical challenges involved and the need for supporting infrastructure, including hydrogen production and bunkering.

If the technology proves viable at scale, its implications could extend beyond shipping. Megawatt-scale fuel cells could also support decarbonisation efforts in offshore energy, ports and other heavy industrial applications. More broadly, success would reinforce Europe’s role in developing clean energy technologies for hard-to-abate sectors.

For now, hydrogen fuel cells remain a longer-term option rather than an immediate fix. But for an industry under growing pressure to cut emissions, progress at the megawatt scale is increasingly being watched closely.