Torghatten Nord, a shipping company, has signed a contract with Myklebust shipyard in Norway to construct the world’s largest hydrogen-powered ship. This ship model, which is 117 meters long, is designed to transport 120 vehicles on Norway’s longest ferry route in the Arctic Circle. It will operate in the waters of Vestfjordstrekninga Bay, connecting the towns of Bodø and Lofoten. The ship will use green hydrogen, produced in Bodø, for at least 85% of its route.

Myklebust, the Norwegian ship design company, will be responsible for designing this high-capacity hydrogen-powered ship, which is expected to be completed by 2026. The construction will take place at Myklebust’s facility in Gursken, south of Ålesund, and will require increased staffing and operations at the shipyard. The project involves collaboration with the Norwegian Maritime Authority to establish safety standards for this new type of ship.

The ship will serve the 278km Vestfjordstrekninga ferry route, connecting Bodø, the islands of Røst and Værøy, and Moskenes. It will significantly increase maritime traffic in the area and help reduce approximately 26,500 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The vessel will face challenging conditions in the Arctic waters, but its design will ensure efficient operation. Onboard storage will supply hydrogen to the fuel cell, converting energy into electricity for propulsion and auxiliary systems.

The project is groundbreaking, as it involves transporting passengers using hydrogen over long distances in harsh conditions, which has never been done before. It is a collaboration between Torghatten Nord, Myklebust shipyard, the SEAM system, and hydrogen supplier GreenH. This initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable shipping practices and reducing carbon emissions in the maritime industry.