The vessel named Raicho N was developed as part of a joint research project by NREG Toshiba Building, a group company of Nomura Real Estate Group, and the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology.
As part of the experiment, the 14m-long vessel was integrated with two stationary pure hydrogen fuel cells, with each having an output of 3.5kW.
The vessel, with a cruising speed of 8 knots, began its experimental proving tests in October 2016.
ESS New Energy Solution Projects Team General Manager Hiroyuki Ota said that the boat uses clean energy sources with zero carbon emission which produces high power output in a short period of time.
Ota said: “We are very excited to see our products adding a new dimension to the achievement of a low-carbon society.”
NREG Toshiba Building and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology are now focusing on identifying issues of seaborne use of pure hydrogen fuel cell systems.
This work is expected to help in commercialization of the hydrogen-powered vessel by 2020.
Toshiba said in a statement: “The results will also be reflected in safety guidelines for fuel cell boats which are to be developed by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.”
Image: The Raicho N experimental vessel integrated with pure hydrogen fuel cell system. Photo: courtesy of TOSHIBA CORPORATION.
