Development of Energy Efficient Solutions for Hydrogen Powered Vessels: RESHIP Project

Book chapter, 2025

RESHIP project funded under the Horizon Europe programme aims to redefine energy efficiency for using hydrogen for ships with disruptive technologies in Energy Saving Devices (ESDs) and onboard hydrogen system for a seamless transition towards zero-emission. The project focuses on two key technologies, the Tubercle Assisted Propulsors (TAPs) and the liquid inorganic hydrogen carrier, HydroSil. TAPs technology is based on a novel and generic biomimetic passive flow control mechanism inspired by humpback whales, which have small bumps on their pectoral fins known as leading-edge (LE) tubercles. The research shows an improvement in the propeller efficiency, constrain the cavitation development and reduce the underwater noise level. HydroSil is an innovative patented liquid inorganic hydrogen carrier with a long storage life, stable, non-toxic, non-explosive and non-dangerous. This highly energy-efficient hydrogen carrier makes the solution cost-effective, with up to 40% savings due to the reduction in capital and operational expenditure. Combining the features of the above two technologies, RESHIP aims to develop a prototype to be trialled at sea using the project target vessel, the Fortuna Crane, owned and operated by O.S. Energy. The project will analyse the results and reflect on the wider applications for sea-going and inland vessels.