Hydrogen’s Next Act Targets the World’s Toughest Jobs

European developers scale megawatt fuel cells for shipping, advancing technology toward pilot projects in the late 2020s and commercial use from 2030 onward

9 Jan 2026

Europe’s hydrogen fuel cell sector is shifting from early demonstrations to longer-term industrial planning, as developers begin work on megawatt-scale systems aimed at shipping and other heavy-duty uses.

A collaboration between HDF Energy and ABB highlights this change in approach. The two companies are developing large fuel cell systems designed for continuous, high-power operation, focusing on technical readiness rather than near-term sales. Pilot projects are expected in the late 2020s, with commercial production targeted from 2030.

Until now, hydrogen fuel cells in Europe have largely been deployed in smaller applications such as buses, trucks and backup power. These projects helped prove the technology but did not meet the demands of sectors such as shipping, where vessels require high output, long operating hours and strict safety certification.

The HDF-ABB partnership is concentrating on system design, integration and certification pathways to address those constraints. The companies say scaling fuel cells to megawatt levels will require several years of development to meet maritime standards and ensure reliability at sea.

ABB is contributing expertise in power electronics, grid connections and marine compliance, while HDF Energy provides fuel cell and hydrogen systems know-how. The companies are working on modular designs intended to reduce technical risk and allow capacity to be increased over time.

The initiative comes as pressure grows on shipping to cut emissions. Maritime transport accounts for about 3 per cent of global greenhouse gas output, and European regulators are tightening environmental rules for vessels operating in regional waters.

Hydrogen fuel cells powered by renewable hydrogen are viewed as a potential zero-emission option, particularly for routes where battery-electric solutions are impractical. However, the economics remain uncertain. Green hydrogen production is still limited, infrastructure at ports is uneven, and shipowners remain cautious about costs and maintenance over a vessel’s lifetime.

Industry groups and developers have argued that extended pilot phases are necessary to bring costs down and build confidence among operators.

While large-scale deployment remains several years away, the move toward megawatt systems marks a step change in ambition. By focusing on development now, European companies aim to position hydrogen fuel cells for a viable role in heavy industry in the next decade.