UK shipbroker Clarksons has signed a deal to explore the bulk transport of green hydrogen on chemical tankers.
The Clarksons Specialised Products unit will work with German tech company Hydrogenious LOHC Technologies on a road map to set up a supply chain using liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) technology.
London-listed Clarksons said it will draw on its insight into and global coverage of the chemical tanker market.
“Through collaboration and their position as brokers, Clarksons will impart its experience and knowledge to inform shipping strategies, provide guidance on regulatory frameworks and facilitate innovative solutions that align with Hydrogenious’ key objective,” it added.
The German partner wants to enable the large-scale commercialisation of clean hydrogen.
“The division’s partnership with Hydrogenious reflects Clarksons’ commitment to enabling global trade and leading positive change by promoting wide-scale access to clean hydrogen and the progression it can bring to reaching decarbonisation goals,” the London shop said.
Hydrogenious said it can enable the existing chemical fleet to carry hydrogen over long distances by chemically binding the molecules to an LOHC, in this case, the thermal oil benzyltoluene.
Gunnar Broeker, divisional director of specialised products at Clarksons Deutschland, said: “It’s great to be part of a solution that will bring cutting-edge, sustainable technologies to the fore, making a meaningful contribution towards global decarbonisation goals.”
As a naturally occurring gas, hydrogen holds enormous potential as an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels, either as a power source, or for marine propulsion, he said.
Moving past the complexities
“Transporting it carries complexities and therefore adoption has been limited to date. Through this agreement we look forward to exploring ways in which Hydrogenious’ LOHC solution can be brought closer to the shipping marketplace,” Broeker added.
Hydrogenious is already working with John Fredriksen and Idan Ofer-backed Edda Wind to use its technology on a wind farm vessel.
It is also collaborating with Siemens Energy, class society DNV, Gondan Shipbuilders, Maritime CleanTech, designer Deltamarin and Greek ferry company ANEK Lines.
Chief commercial officer Toralf Pohl said existing liquid fuel infrastructure can be used in ports.
“We are excited to be working with the world’s leading shipbroker in Clarksons, and to benefit from their immense expertise in shipping, trade and energy transition.” he said.
“We look forward to expanding our collaboration and deepening our understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the hydrogen market.”
