Joint Development Agreement Between ABB and HDF

ABB, a global leader in industrial automation and control systems, has partnered with HDF Energy to develop megawatt-scale fuel cell units for large vessels. This collaboration, formalized through a joint development agreement, builds on their earlier memorandum of understanding signed in 2020. The initiative highlights how factory automation and advanced PLC/DCS integration can accelerate maritime decarbonization.

Pilot Installations and Serial Production Timeline

The partners plan pilot installations between 2028 and 2029, with serial production starting in 2030. This timeline reflects the complexity of integrating high-power hydrogen fuel cells into marine control systems. Moreover, the phased approach ensures reliability and compliance with international standards before widespread deployment.

Combining Expertise in Fuel Cell and Control Systems

HDF contributes its expertise in designing large-scale fuel cell technology, while ABB provides power converters, electrical integration, and advanced control systems. In addition, ABB’s industrial automation portfolio, including PLC and DCS platforms, ensures seamless system integration. This synergy demonstrates how automation and energy technologies converge to support sustainable shipping.

Reducing Maritime Emissions Through Hydrogen-Electric Vessels

The new fuel cell units aim to replace diesel auxiliary gensets, significantly reducing emissions. When powered by green hydrogen, the environmental benefits become even more substantial. As a result, hydrogen-electric vessels could redefine energy efficiency in maritime transport, aligning with global decarbonization goals.

Integration With ABB’s Onboard DC Grid

ABB’s Onboard DC Grid enables flexible integration of fuel cells with other subsystems, such as battery energy storage. Therefore, operators can maximize operational range and hybrid system efficiency. This approach reflects broader industrial automation trends, where modular control systems enhance adaptability and resilience.

Supporting Shore Power and Port Electrification

Beyond vessel propulsion, the fuel cell units can serve as auxiliary power sources for ports. They can support peak demand when grid capacity is limited, strengthening shore-power infrastructure. In addition, this application demonstrates how factory automation principles extend to marine electrification, ensuring reliable energy distribution.

Industry Commentary and Future Outlook

ABB’s Marine & Ports division emphasizes its commitment to maritime decarbonization. From an industry perspective, this collaboration represents a critical step toward integrating hydrogen fuel cells into large-scale industrial automation systems. My view is that success will depend on cost reduction, regulatory alignment, and operator training. Companies adopting these technologies must invest in control system upgrades and workforce skills to fully leverage the benefits.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

• Container feeder ships replacing diesel gensets with hydrogen fuel cells.

• Liquefied hydrogen carriers using hybrid automation systems for propulsion.

• Ports deploying auxiliary fuel cell units to stabilize shore-power demand.

• Integration with PLC and DCS platforms for real-time monitoring and control.

• Factory automation solutions ensuring safe and efficient hydrogen handling.