Goa eyes hydrogen-powered ferries for inland waterways

Panaji: Goa may soon see hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric passenger vessels operating in its inland waters if state govt accepts a proposal submitted by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). If approved, Goa could become the second state in India after Uttar Pradesh to operate such services for commuters, aimed at reducing pollution and promoting cleaner transport.

CSL said it has successfully designed, developed and demonstrated India’s first class-approved indigenous 50-passenger hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vessel. The vessel was delivered to the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in Varanasi and is currently undergoing commercial operations.

The company has proposed a collaboration with the Goa Energy Development Agency to introduce the passenger vessel service in Goa.

In its proposal, CSL said hydrogen fuel cell systems are increasingly being adopted in marine applications as a clean and efficient alternative to fossil fuels.

“In marine environments, hydrogen fuel cells offer significant advantages such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, quieter operation and the potential for extended range without the need for refuelling. Their modular design allows flexibility in installation, making them suitable for various types of vessels, from small boats to large ships. As the maritime industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, hydrogen fuel cells are emerging as a key technology for sustainable marine transportation,” CSL said.

CSL said it completed the design, development, commissioning and trials of India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell system and hydrogen-powered vessel in collaboration with KPIT Technologies and the Indian Register of Shipping.

“Hydrogen fuel cell-powered battery-operated vessels are equipped with proton exchange membrane technology fuel cell systems. These systems generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, with water as the only byproduct, making them an environmentally friendly solution,” CSL said.

“This is a quick-start technology that works at ambient temperatures. The vessel is designed to carry 50 passengers and operate at a speed of 7 knots,” CSL added.