Hamburg-based eCap Marine has secured two key contracts to deliver hydrogen propulsion systems for zero-emission vessels, marking a significant step forward in the company’s mission to accelerate the maritime energy transition.
The contracts, signed during this year’s Nor-Shipping maritime trade fair in Oslo, reflect growing momentum in the industry around hydrogen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
One of the projects will see eCap Marine supply hydrogen-powered fuel cells for two new short-sea container vessels, being built for logistics provider Samskip. Construction is already underway at Cochin Shipyard in India, with the vessels scheduled for delivery in 2027.
Once launched, the Samskip SeaShuttles are expected to be the world’s first short-sea container ships powered entirely by green hydrogen. eCap Marine will provide 3.2 MW PEM fuel cells for each vessel, along with marine-certified power electronics, control and safety systems.
In a separate deal, eCap Marine was selected by Norwegian shipping company Møre Sjø to equip two hydrogen-powered bulk carriers with onboard fuel cell systems. The 85-meter newbuilds, designed for operations along the Norwegian coast and through its sensitive fjord environments, are being constructed at the Gelibolu Shipyard in Türkiye and are also expected to enter service in 2027.
Each vessel will feature a 1.7 MW PEM hydrogen fuel cell system, supported by compressed hydrogen tanks with a capacity exceeding two tonnes. These systems will be permanently installed aft, while other core components will be integrated below deck. eCap Marine’s delivery scope includes an onboard hydrogen bunkering station and complete integration with the vessels’ power management systems.
