DNV has awarded approval in principle (AiP) to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for its electric propulsion liquid hydrogen (LH2) carrier design concept that could enable 80,000m3 of LH2 storage and transportation.
Electric hydrogen carrier
The vessel is equipped with HD Hyundai’s new large liquid hydrogen tanks featuring advanced vacuum insulation and an electric propulsion system with hydrogen dual-fuel HiMSEN engines, enabling flexible fuel use between diesel and hydrogen. The hull design and cargo handling system are targeted to provide greater operational efficiency and commercial flexibility.
The AiP from DNV verifies that HD KSOE’s electric propulsion LH2 carrier design concept complies in principle with the safety, environmental and technical standards necessary for the safe and efficient transportation of LH2. As part of this AiP project, DNV also conducted detailed and comprehensive hazard identification (HAZID) and environmental impact identification (ENVID) studies to evaluate and mitigate potential risks associated with the design and operation of the electric LH2 carrier.
Liquid hydrogen shipping supply chains
Chang Kwang-pil, chief technology officer of HD KSOE, said, “This AiP from DNV is a crucial validation of our commitment to developing a reliable and cost-effective LH2 carrier. Achieving this goal requires collective effort across the LH2 shipping value chain, and we are committed to driving progress through continuous collaboration and innovation.”
Julie Fallon, executive vice president of technical and energy development at Woodside Energy, stated, “We have made clear progress in the pursuit of developing cost-effective and flexible large-scale liquid hydrogen shipping supply chains to support our customers’ needs, thanks to the investment and collaborative effort of all parties involved.”
Tae Woo Kim, senior vice president of the shipping business division at Hyundai Glovis, continued, “Through the collaboration with industry leaders across the LH2 value chain, resulting in an AiP from DNV, we, as a shipowner, have gone through the process of identifying hazards, assessed risks and reviewed prevention and mitigation measures. This process will collectively guide and help us to better protect lives and cargo, and the ship itself.”
Jotaro Tamura, managing director of MOL (Asia Oceania) and senior management executive officer of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, noted, “We are very pleased with the progress made in the development of the LH2 carrier since we joined the project in February 2024. We would like to use our technical and operational knowledge, cultivated through many years of shipping experience, to continuously contribute toward the establishment of a hydrogen supply chain.
Vidar Dolonen, regional manager for DNV Korea and Japan, added, “The AiP is another vital step toward building a global hydrogen economy, through safer and more efficient long-distance transportation of LH2. DNV is honored to be involved in this project and to support the development of cutting-edge energy solutions.”
In related news, the Norwegian Maritime Authority recently announced its recommendations for regulations for achieving zero emissions in the UNESCO-listed West Norwegian Fjords. Helge Hermundsgård, business development manager at DNV Maritime, elaborated on the implications of these regulations for cruise operators in an interview available here.