The paper, “FLAGSHIPS – Zero Emission Waterborne Transport,” describes how the project has deployed two commercially operated hydrogen-fuelled vessels in Europe: the H2 Barge 2, a 110-metre inland container vessel designed for operations between Rotterdam and Duisburg on the Rhine, and the Zulu 06, a self-propelled barge tailored for operations on the Seine in central Paris.

Both vessels are powered by PEM fuel cells from Ballard Power Systems and use compressed hydrogen stored in swappable containers at 300-350 bar. FPS Waal carries 1,200 kW of fuel cells onboard, while Zulu 06 operates with a 400 kW system tailored to its urban profile.

“Through this project we’ve demonstrated that hydrogen fuel cells can deliver reliable, safe and efficient power for everyday shipping operations, and that the technology is ready to scale,” said Jyrki Mikkola, Senior Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and lead author of the study.

The paper highlights how the vessels were designed using a risk-based design methodology, in close cooperation with class societies and authorities, to meet the highest safety standards for hydrogen systems. The consortium obtained crucial learnings from the classification and approval process, paving the way for future hydrogen-powered ships.

“What makes this achievement possible is the collaboration behind it. Together we’ve turned research into real movement on the water, a step toward a cleaner maritime future,” Mikkola added.

The demonstrations confirm that hydrogen fuel cell technology is a viable solution for zero-emission shipping, and that hybrid solutions combining fuel cells and batteries can meet demanding operational requirements. As stricter climate regulations create incentives for shipowners and their customers to cut emissions, FLAGSHIPS’ demonstration vessels provide a practical blueprint for the next generation of clean, safe, and scalable inland and short-sea shipping solutions.