Nuvera has been commissioned to produce and deliver eight of its Orion fuel cell stacks (total power 260kW), which will be used as range extenders for use on marine vessels.
Nuvera’s fuel cell auxiliary power units will provide marine vessels with air-independent propulsion (AIP). This is the same technology used in non-nuclear submarines, which allows them to operate without the need to surface for oxygen. AIP generates electricity, which in turn drives an electric motor for propulsion or for recharging the boat’s batteries. The outcome of using this technology is silent operation, a major benefit in the world of luxury sea travel.
"Fuel cells provide an attractive value proposition to the marine industry," said Giampaolo Sibilia, Director of European Operations for Nuvera Fuel Cells. "This important program with Fincantieri not only validates the benefits of Orion technology in sea-based transportation, but fulfills a specific need in the marine world – to make sea travel cleaner and quieter."
Fincantieri has coordinated the building of more than 7,000 seagoing vessels spanning its 200 year history, giving the shipbuilder an unrivaled understanding of the sea travel industry. Fincantieri selected Nuvera’s Orion fuel cell stack technology for its performance and durability.
Orion fuel cell stacks are Nuvera’s line of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), which offer best-in-class power density in sizes ranging from 10 to 300kW.
The program is scheduled to begin December 2013. Nuvera is aiming to deliver all eight Orion fuel cell stack prototype units by mid-2014.
