In addition to four fuel cell modules manufactured by Siemens with a gross output of 40kW each, the container will accommodate all the process engineering and electrical engineering systems needed for operation, control and monitoring as well as a converter which adapts the electrical energy generated so that it can be fed into the ship's power system. HFCS will be responsible for the installation work on board and for all other preparatory measures needed for testing the fuel cell system.

Due to the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and the oxygen in the air at low temperature, the fuel cells generate electrical current without any emission of pollutants. Thanks to the high efficiency of this process, fuel utilisation is claimed to be considerably better than with a diesel-electric system of the same output while also delivering low noise levels and short starting time.

Siemens I&S develops and manufactures fuel cells which propel submarines independently of outside air. In the future, fuel cells will provide surface ships such as ferries with electricity using oxygen from the outside air. The environmentally harmful emissions of diesel engines, especially when in harbours, can thus be avoided.

MJ Information No: 18805