DNV has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) and its subsidiaries, HD Hyundai Heavy Industry (HD HHI) and Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) for their new H₂ system. HD KSOE aims to complete development of the H₂ carrier technology that enables large-capacity H₂ transportation and storage by around 2030.

Sustainably produced zero and low-carbon H₂ has been identified as a key part of the world’s energy transition. Efficient transport by ship faces a number of challenges, including the complexity of holding H₂ at -253°C, some 100°C colder than LNG, at large scale. But finding solutions to this challenge is vital, as shipping has an important role in unlocking the use of H₂ in decarbonizing heavy industries, such as steel and cement production.

HD KSOE's new system utilizes boil-off gas from H₂ transport for a hybrid propulsion system, integrating H₂ DF engines and fuel cells. Collaborating globally, HD KSOE and partners like Woodside Energy and Linde Engineering are exploring new H₂ transportation and storage solutions, aiming to commercialize their advancements by 2030.

Dr. Sungjun Kim, CTO at HD KSOE said, "We are continuously developing world-class technology in liquefied H₂ following our achievements in methanol, ammonia and CO₂ carriers. With our H₂ system, we will lead technology advances in transitioning to a carbon-neutral society.”

Vidar Dolonen, DNV Regional Manager for Korea & Japan said, "To build confidence and overcome the challenges of H₂ transport for shipping, we need to bring many different partners together, build on the learnings from other fuels and industries, and adapt technologies to the maritime environment. This is why we are very pleased to be working with innovative partners to help establish new design standards, that can create the next generation of H₂ carriers and help this emerging segment develop and succeed.”

Maria Gonzalez-Perez, Vice President Strategic Planning & Portfolio New Energy of Woodside Energy said, "This new system is expected to accelerate the development of the H₂ shipping value chain. To realize H₂ shipping, the roles of H₂ producers, consumers, and shipyards are crucial. Through ongoing collaboration, we hope to develop solutions to accelerate the growth of H₂.”

Lars Blum, the Managing Director of Linde Kryotechnik said, "Linde Kryotechnik is pleased to collaborate with the leading shipbuilding company, HD KSOE on technology and to bridge an existing gap in the H₂ value chain. Through this cooperation, the technologies and expertise of world class companies are brought together to help to unlock the massive potential of H₂.”

Samuel Zouaghi, CEO of Cryostar said, “Cryostar is progressively developing equipment for H₂, both on land and at sea. Leveraging our expertise, we will develop equipment that aligns perfectly with the newly developed system and H₂ vessels.”