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Apr 10 2025

Hydrogen-powered small vessels in place of lorries

Hydrogen-powered small vessels in place of lorries. Could running autonomous hydrogen-powered small vessels be an economically viable option? A research group from the German University of Münster has concluded that, under certain circumstances, it could – though only beyond a certain distance.

 

Is it worth running small, autonomously operating ships with hydrogen propulsion? A group of students studying industrial chemistry at the University of Münster (Germany) has concluded that it is – at least under certain conditions.

 

The transport industry is searching for sustainable transport solutions, as the university pointed out. On inland waterways, using batteries is significantly more difficult than on roads. This is why the researchers are investigating a largely unexplored solution – namely autonomously operated hydrogen-powered boats.

 

Advantages over lorries

 

Under the direction of Professor Stephan von Delft a research team has developed a mathematical model for such a vessel and conducted a life cycle and cost analysis. The results aim to show whether hydrogen-powered boats can genuinely be more sustainable and cost-efficient than conventional modes of transport.

 

The analysis distinguishes between vessels powered by green or by grey hydrogen. According to the findings, green hydrogen becomes worthwhile above a transport distance of 576 km, when compared to diesel-powered lorries. Economic benefits compared to hydrogen or battery-powered lorries emerge from a distance of 624 km. The vessels could therefore “become a cost-optimal solution to transport goods over distances of more than 624 km.” Read more

 

Source: ITJ