Hydrogen fuel shows promise for zero-emission shipping, but challenges in safety, infrastructure, and investment must be addressed for widespread adoption.
Hydrogen is emerging as a potential zero-emission fuel for ships, but significant hurdles remain before it can be widely adopted, reports London's Lloyd's Register.
Green hydrogen, produced through renewable-powered electrolysis, can generate electricity in fuel cells with only water vapour as a byproduct. It is also a building block for e-fuels such as ammonia and methanol. However, hydrogen's low energy density, cryogenic storage needs at minus 253C, and safety risks mean it is not yet a ready-made solution for most ship types.
Hydrogen-capable vessels represent less than 0.5 percent of the global orderbook, according to the report. Shipowners are under pressure to cut emissions under the EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime, and the IMO's 2050 net-zero target. Green hydrogen could benefit from FuelEU Maritime's two-times multiplier for renewable fuels of non-biological origin until 2033, potentially accelerating uptake.
Infrastructure remains a critical challenge. Low-emissions hydrogen, including green and blue hydrogen, accounted for less than one percent of global production in 2025, according to IEA figures. Significant investment in production, transport, and bunkering is needed, while shipping will compete with other industries for supply. Certification schemes and lifecycle assessments are also required.
Safety is a major concern. Hydrogen's flammability, low ignition energy, and risk of embrittlement demand strict design standards and specialized crew training. Lloyd's Register has set requirements in its Rules for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels, covering fuel cells, composite cylinders, liquid hydrogen systems, and bunkering.
Near-term opportunities exist in short-sea trades such as ferries, tugs, and coastal vessels, where regular bunkering cycles reduce storage constraints. Fuel cell technologies are showing promise, supported by improving costs and durability. Hydrogen-ready designs and hybrid fuel strategies could help shipowners future-proof assets.
Padmini Mellacheruvu, Lloyd's Register's lead technical specialist in cryogenic and compressed fuel systems, said hydrogen has an important role in the maritime energy transition, but scaling will require early investment, careful planning, and a clear focus on safety.
Maximilian Kuhn, advisor to Hydrogen Europe, said hydrogen is more than just a fuel, describing it as a driver of systemic change. He noted its versatility and compatibility with renewable energy sources but warned that infrastructure, regulation, safety, and cost remain critical hurdles.
