Long-distance shipping presents a unique challenge. Ocean voyages may span several weeks and require significant energy-storage capacity, operational reliability and propulsion technologies capable of performing under demanding conditions.
The H4PERION project is responding to this challenge by developing a novel marine internal combustion engine capable of operating on blends of hydrogen and biomethane, with the potential to achieve 100% hydrogen operation.
For the first time, the project will equip a large 24,000 GT vessel, with a total installed capacity of 17.6 MW, with a hydrogen engine operating as the prime mover. Alongside the engine developments, H4PERION will develop and demonstrate:
- A novel hydrogen and biomethane fuel-supply and blending system
- Advanced exhaust-gas aftertreatment solutions
- Full-scale laboratory validation and real-vessel demonstration
- Digital tools supporting technology integration, vessel performance and maintenance
Through these combined innovations, H4PERION aims to achieve major improvements in the environmental performance of the marine power plant, targeting:
- 100% CO2 reduction
- 90% reduction in NOx and SOx emissions
- 80% reduction in particulate matter
- At least 80% reduction in methane slip
The project’s ambition extends beyond the demonstration vessel. H4PERION will also examine the replicability of its technologies across at least three additional vessel types, assess their lifecycle performance, develop an open-access repository of health and safety guidance, prepare specialised training materials for ship crews and port operators, and contribute to the standardisation of hydrogen as a marine fuel.
H4PERION is setting out to advance ultra-efficient, zero-carbon power conversion, strengthen the safe handling of hydrogen on board and in ports, and support the development of the regulatory framework needed for zero-carbon marine fuels.
Stay connected as we explore the technologies, people and activities driving the H4PERION journey!
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement no. 101270728.
