Hydrogen-Powered Towboat Project Receives Key USCG Approval

Maritime Partners has received a Design Basis Agreement from the U.S. Coast Guard for the M/V Hydrogen One towboat.

The Hydrogen One will be use e1 Marine hydrogen generator technology for its power plant and is designed to use advanced fuel cell technology that converts stored methanol, which is readily available in many ports, into hydrogen on demand. This hydrogen then generates power for the vessel.

A successful test of the technology took place in Gothenburg, Sweden, in June 2023, demonstrating its potential as a single power generation source for vessel propulsion.

“The signing of this agreement allows us to deploy our technology and brings us one step closer to making the Hydrogen One the world’s first vessel to utilize hydrogen generator technology,” said Bick Brooks, co-founder and CEO of Maritime Partners. “This will significantly reduce emissions and increase efficiency, providing a model for cleaner energy use as the maritime industry continues to decarbonize.”

The DBA process is a vital part of the U.S. Coast Guard’s regulations for new and unique technology proposed for marine vessels. Maritime Partners collaborated with industry partners, including the Seattle-based Elliott Bay Design Group, Bourg, La.-based Intracoastal Iron Works, e1 Marine, RIX Industries, Power Cell Group, and others, to meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements.

The DBA guarantees that Maritime Partners will adhere to a mutually agreed framework with the U.S. Coast Guard as the Hydrogen One project progresses. This framework includes the design, arrangement, and engineering aspects of the power system and associated safety systems for plan review, inspection, and eventual certification of the towing vessel.

The vessel will be IMO 2030-compliant and meet all requirements of the US Coast Guard’s Subchapter M regulations. Hydrogen One is expected to be able to perform at standard operational speeds for up to 550 miles before needing to refuel.

“Maritime Partners is deeply committed to developing and using sustainable, clean energy solutions,” said Dave Lee, Maritime Partners’ VP of Technology & Innovation. “The development of Hydrogen One is part of our commitment as the entire maritime industry continues to look for cleaner, greener, and more efficient alternative fuel options.”