Classification society DNV has awarded Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Yanmar Holdings, type approval (TA) for its Maritime Hydrogen Fuel Cell System. The certification was presented at the SMM trade fair in Hamburg last week and represents a significant milestone in the commercialization and global deployment of hydrogen fuel cell technology for marine applications. SMM, held biennially in Hamburg, is one of the world's largest maritime industry trade fairs and a regular venue for propulsion and fuel technology announcements.

The approval confirms that the GH-FC series complies with DNV's industry-leading rules and guidelines. As a result, shipbuilders, system integrators, and vessel operators can adopt the technology with greater confidence and a reduced certification burden for future projects. Type approval from a major classification society is a widely recognized step in maritime technology development, as class rules govern the design and safety standards vessels must meet to be insured and operated internationally.

The certification comes as the shipping industry works toward the International Maritime Organization's target of reducing total greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, including a goal of net-zero emissions around 2050, which has intensified interest in alternative fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, and ammonia. Hydrogen fuel cells in particular are viewed as a candidate for smaller vessels and shorter routes, where battery-electric solutions alone face range and weight limitations.

Masaru Hirose, President and Representative Director of Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd., said: "Achieving DNV Type Approval represents a major milestone in our journey to bring hydrogen-powered solutions to the marine market. Building on our operational experience in Japan, we aim to support customers around the world in their transition to zero-emission operations and realize sustainable maritime transportation."

Eric Tigelaar, Department Manager of the Commercial Marine Department at Yanmar Europe, stated: "This certification strengthens our ability to support customers throughout Europe and beyond who are seeking practical pathways toward decarbonization. The GH-FC series combines easy installation, operational flexibility, modularity and environmental performance, making it an attractive solution for a wide range of vessel applications."

Olaf Drews, Head of Engines & Pressurized Equipment at DNV Maritime, remarked: "We are very pleased to continue our cooperation with Yanmar and award them this latest Type Approval Award for their GH-FC series. Every step demonstrates the growing maturity of hydrogen fuel cell technology and continues to build confidence in the market and showcase its readiness for broader commercial applications. DNV is pleased to continue supporting innovative solutions that can help accelerate the transition toward zero-emission shipping."

The certification marks an important step in advancing Yanmar's maritime hydrogen fuel cell technology from successful domestic deployment in Japan toward broader commercial adoption in international markets. Broader uptake of hydrogen fuel cells at sea will also depend on the development of bunkering infrastructure and hydrogen supply chains in ports, which remain limited worldwide.

Source: DNV