Italian classification society RINA has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) certificate to an energy-harvesting vessel concept developed by UK-based startup Drift Energy.
The project envisions producing “green” hydrogen at sea using renewable energy generated while the vessel is underway, with the hydrogen then delivered to ports and other end users.
According to Drift Energy, the first vessel is expected to enter service in 2027. The company also announced that it has already built an order pipeline for more than 30 vessels.
Under the concept, the ships will harness offshore wind energy and generate electricity through hull-mounted hydrokinetic turbines. The electricity produced will then be converted into green hydrogen via electrolysis and stored onboard.
The hydrogen can either be transported ashore in containers or supplied directly to other vessels as bunker fuel. One of the project’s primary goals is to reduce carbon emissions in the maritime sector and expand the use of alternative energy sources.
The system will also integrate AI-based route optimization technology. This technology will enable vessels to operate in the most favorable weather conditions, maximizing energy generation efficiency.
RINA stated that this is the first AiP certificate issued for an energy-harvesting vessel concept and confirmed that the project has been developed in accordance with current international safety standards.
