Green light for hydrogen USV and refilling station on the Thames
SEA-KIT International has won funding from the Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition to design and manufacture a hydrogen-fuelled Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). The company will partner with maritime decarbonisation disruptor, Marine2o, for the build of land-based infrastructure to produce green hydrogen, via renewable energy and the electrolysis of water, as part of the project.
Dubbed ZEPHR – Zero Emissions Ports Hydrogen Refilling Survey Vessel, the project aims to extend vessel operation for port operators and stakeholders through complete energy transferal, from readily accessible green electricity to 100% green hydrogen creation and storage.
Engineering design and sustainability specialists Marine Zero will support Sea Kit and Marine2o with consultancy and support around bunkering and regulatory compliance. Marine Zero will also lead the development and delivery of a specialist skills and training programme for operators of the hydrogen vessel and hydrogen bunkering facility.
The Port of London Authority (PLA) will identify and host the hydrogen refilling station’s location on the River Thames in London, UK. The PLA, a non-funded consortium partner, will subsequently operate the ZEPHR USV with the option to lease or purchase the vessel after a period of three years.
