The entry into service of a ferry powered by PEM fuel cells fuelled by liquid hydrogen on 31 March marked a significant advance for what remains a largely untried technology. Norled’s Hydra began operations on a busy route in Rogaland in western Norway after receiving approval from the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA).

The process of obtaining final approvals from the NMA has been extensive. The Hydra was delivered from shipbuilder Westcon’s Olen yard in June 2022, after which the hydrogen storage, fuel gas supply system and fuel cell system were installed by early Q4 2022. 

Norled began carrying out system tests at the quay in Hjelmeland at the beginning of 2023. In Q1 2023, they began to run sea trials, culminating in the receipt of final approvals from the NMA in March.