HELSINKI-listed ABB is to deliver first fuel cell system for Royal Caribbean. It is one of the first commercial fuel cells to be fitted on such a vessel.
ABB said in a press release that the system is aimed to be a pilot. Recent developments in fuel cell technology have raised the potential for the energy source to be widely used in transportation. Earlier tests on vessels may have proved the technology, but not the economics.
“Our goal is to take the smoke out of the smokestacks, said Harri Kulovaara, Executive Vice President of Maritime and Newbuilding, Royal Caribbean Cruises in the ABB press release.
“We are dedicated to innovation, continuous improvement, and environmental responsibility, and using fuel cell technology gives us the opportunity to deliver against all three of these pillars.”
Juha Koskela, Managing Director, ABB Marine & Ports said this pilot installation demonstrates that fuel cell technology is now firmly in sight of the cruise industry “Fuel cells have been the next big thing for 25 years, but now they are reality.”
Fuel cells meet the requirements according to ABB for the electrified digital ship in a commercial environment where sustainability and environmental impact are top agenda items. The ABB system , which includes a fuel cell from Ballard Power Systems, will be powered by hydrogen and generate 100kW energy.
Fathom-News.com
