From the Road To The Sea Where Will Hydrogen Take Me Next?

You will never guess where I am writing from this week...!


Have you guessed it yet.......? Nope! Told you wouldn't get it! I'm on board a submarine!


A Greek Navy submarine to be exact! They came and picked me up from a secret location and you never guess what else...it's fuelled on hydrogen!


Howaldswerke Deutsche Werft GmbH (HDW) have developed a fuel cell-powered submarine system, which allows the vessel to generate energy without leaving a heat or noise signature along its route, whilst also remaining submerged for longer periods. A real benefit for a submarine.


The hydrogen-fuelling equipment supplied to the navies by Air Products, include a piece of equipment called the Cryogenic Hydrogen Compressor (CHC) that was originally developed for big, industrial users in the compression of liquid hydrogen and cryogenic gas. More recently it has successfully been adapted for fuel cell applications and is used in hydrogen fuelling stations around the world. Today, CHC equipment is as easy to use as any fire water pump on board ships.


I was able to speak to Air Products Project Manager, Thomas Scheitz and he said:
“Air Products already has experience fuelling submarines across Europe, specifically in Germany. Additionally we are the leader in hydrogen fuelling for transportation and have active projects in place around the globe including the world’s first hydrogen fuelling station located at an existing retail (gasoline) station. There consumers get a first-hand view of hydrogen-fuelling taking place, perhaps you want to make there your next stop on your hydrogen tour?”


I think that might be a good idea...