World’s Largest Hydrogen Cargo Ship Set to Revolutionize Maritime Shipping

Energy Observer is revolutionizing maritime transport with the Energy Observer 2 (EO2), the world’s largest liquid hydrogen-powered cargo ship, set to sail by 2029.

Supported by a €40 million grant from the EU’s Innovation Fund, this 160-meter vessel will carry 1,100 containers while drastically cutting carbon emissions.

The EO2’s hydrogen fuel cells will power its electric engines, reducing CO2 emissions by over 112,000 tons in its first 10 years of operations.

With a range of 1,600 nautical miles, the ship will travel along Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts, averaging speeds of 12.5 knots and peaking at 16 knots.

Energy Observer’s pioneering efforts began in 2017 with a zero-emission lab vessel. Now, the EO2 proves liquid hydrogen can be a viable, sustainable maritime fuel.

The ship will feature 12 hydrogen fuel cell modules generating 400 kW each, developed in collaboration with Toyota and EODev.

The ambitious €100 million project is a collaboration between Accor, Air Liquide, CMA CGM, LMG Marin, and Dassault Systems, among others.

If successful, EO2 will demonstrate the commercial potential of hydrogen-powered shipping, paving the way for a cleaner, sustainable maritime future.