Energy Observer, a company focused on developing clean energy solutions, is working on building the world’s largest liquid hydrogen-powered cargo ship called EO2 with the support of the European Union’s Innovation Fund.
The EO2 project was selected from 85 applications and awarded €40 million (US$42 million) from the European Union’s Innovation Fund to advance the development of the vessel.
The current design of EO2 is a 160-meter (525-foot) containership with a carrying capacity of 1,100 TEU. It aims to be the world’s lowest carbon-emitting cargo ship.
The vessel will be equipped with a 4.8 MW electric propulsion system powered by hydrogen fuel cells developed by EODev and Toyota.
The initial investment for the project is estimated to be over €100 million, covering studies and construction of the vessel.
The EO2 is planned to have a range of 14 days and 1,600 nautical miles, with an average speed of 12.5 knots and a maximum speed of 16 knots.
It will be approximately 12,000 dwt and operate with a crew of 18. They project the vessel could reduce CO2 emissions by 112,250 tons over 10 years. The current plan projects commercial operations beginning in 2029 on Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts.
The project has received support and participation from various companies, including Accor, CMA CGM, Air Liquid, and Bureau Veritas, among others.
The aim is to demonstrate the technical and economic viability of using liquid hydrogen for maritime transport on short segments and contribute to Europe’s leadership in the energy transition to clean technologies.
The commercial operations of the EO2 vessel are projected to begin in 2029 on Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts.