H2SITE’s Ammonia to Hydrogen Power Technology Receives Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register

(Left to right) Jose Medrano, Technical Director, H2SITE; Mark Darley, Chief Operations Officer, Lloyd’s Register

H2SITE, a pioneer in clean energy solutions, has achieved a significant milestone with its Ammonia to Hydrogen Power technology receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR). This innovative onboard containerized solution holds immense promise in advancing the utilization of ammonia cracking for hydrogen production, offering a pathway towards greener and more sustainable maritime operations.

The technology operates by utilizing H2SITE’s hydrogen-selective membranes to overcome the thermodynamic limitations of the ammonia cracking reaction. By continuously recovering hydrogen, it achieves virtually complete ammonia conversion and higher efficiencies at lower temperatures. This not only reduces overall energy consumption but also minimizes the system’s footprint, making it a compelling choice for onboard applications.

The approval process involved a meticulous evaluation of the design and arrangement, ensuring compliance with LR’s Rules and Regulations for the Classification of Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels. A comprehensive risk assessment, in accordance with LR’s ShipRight Procedure for Risk-Based Certification (RBC), was also conducted to address potential risks associated with the use of ammonia and hydrogen.

H2SITE showcased the operational efficacy of its technology last November aboard Zumaia Offshore’s Bertha B vessel, demonstrating its performance in real-world offshore conditions. Building on this success, H2SITE plans to scale up its membrane reactors to the MW scale after completing full technical validation at the kW scale under the H2Ocean and APOLO projects.

Jose Medrano, Technical Director at H2SITE, expressed enthusiasm about the future scalability of the technology, emphasizing its potential to integrate seamlessly with propulsion systems and auxiliary power units across a diverse range of vessels, from offshore platforms to tankers and gas carriers.

Mark Darley, Chief Operations Officer at Lloyd’s Register, hailed H2SITE’s Ammonia to Hydrogen Power technology as an exciting opportunity for shipowners to transition towards cleaner energy solutions. He underscored the significance of the AiP award, highlighting Lloyd’s Register’s commitment to collaborating with the maritime industry to facilitate the adoption of zero-emission power solutions and contribute to a more sustainable future.

With the maritime sector increasingly embracing innovative technologies to reduce emissions and enhance environmental sustainability, H2SITE’s Ammonia to Hydrogen Power technology emerges as a promising solution poised to drive positive change in the industry’s transition towards cleaner energy sources.