Ballard announces landmark 6.4MW fuel cell order from eCap Marine to power Samskip vessels

Ballard Power Systems has announced the signing of a significant new purchase order -  one of the largest in the marine sector - supplying 6.4MW of fuel cell engines to eCap Marine, a long-standing expert in emission-free power, for deployment on two vessels by Samskip - one of the largest multi-modal European operators specializing in short sea, rail, road, and barge services.

In total, 32 FCwave™ 200kW fuel cell engines will be integrated into green marine propulsion systems by eCap Marine to power two SeaShuttle vessels in Samskip’s fleet, contributing to the decarbonization of waterways between Norway and the Netherlands. The order continues a collaboration with the German-based engineering company, which started in 2021. Delivery of the engines to Samskip will be completed between 2025 and 2026.

“We’re proud to expand our partnership with eCap Marine and Samskip with one of the largest marine fuel cell engine orders in history. Deploying our FCwave™ modules on these two Samskip vessels provides a critical validation point for the use of proton-exchange membrane fuel cell propulsion for maritime applications.”

Marty Neese CEO, Ballard

Having previously retrofitted the Coastal Liberty commercial vessel - which is also powered by Ballard - eCap Marine will again utilize Ballard technology to equip Samskip with hydrogen-based propulsion solutions for its two zero-emission short-sea container vessels. These marine units are currently being built at Cochin Shipyard in Kochi, India.

Once commissioned, the SeaShuttles will be among the first decarbonized vessels of their kind using green hydrogen in the world, and each ship is expected to achieve around 25,000 tons of CO₂ reduction per year. 

“Our continued collaboration with Ballard is central to our mission to decarbonize marine transport. This latest order exemplifies our shared commitment to operational excellence and environmental stewardship. Together, we are delivering a clean propulsion solution that meets the rigorous demands of long-haul marine operations.”

Lars Ravens Managing Director, eCap Marine

The FCwave™ is designed to provide zero-emission power to a broad range of marine vessels and stationary applications. The module leverages more than eight generations of product development and heavy-duty technology experience in demanding applications and climates. The fuel cell engine provides a flexible, industrial grade all-in-one hydrogen-powered solution that is low in total lifecycle cost and easily scalable to power and space requirements.

Ballard’s solution is the world’s first type-approved fuel cell module for marine-specific applications - accredited by DNV, Lloyd's Register, and ABS - ensuring compliance with international maritime safety and design standards.

An ambitious project for Samskip, the company is collaborating with ENOVA, the Norwegian Government's green funding program aimed at emission-free transport solutions, by adopting sustainable innovative future technologies, highlighting the role of public-private collaboration in accelerating the transition to sustainable marine applications.