Maritime to take 15% of clean hydrogen demand by 2060, DNV forecasts

DNV’s latest Hydrogen Forecast to 2060 projects that the maritime sector will account for 15% of global clean hydrogen demand, positioning shipping as the third-largest consumer of renewable fuels. As the industry shifts away from heavy fuel oils to meet decarbonization targets, hydrogen-based derivatives like ammonia and methanol are becoming essential for deep-sea vessels. Major shipping lines such as Maersk and MSC are already investing in dual-fuel engine technologies, while bunkering hubs like Singapore and Rotterdam prepare for large-scale hydrogen infrastructure.

Transitioning to hydrogen-based fuels necessitates strict adherence to the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), which falls under SOLAS Chapter II-1. Compliance departments must ensure that new vessel designs meet the rigorous risk assessment criteria outlined in the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) decarbonization roadmap. Furthermore, MARPOL Annex VI regulations regarding nitrogen oxide and sulfur emissions will drive the adoption of these clean fuels, requiring operators to implement advanced fuel handling systems and rigorous safety protocols to maintain class certification.

Chief engineers and second engineers will face the most significant operational shifts as hydrogen-based propulsion systems become standard. These ranks must prioritize specialized training in handling low-flashpoint fuels and cryogenic storage systems to ensure onboard safety. Mastering the maintenance of fuel cell technology and dual-fuel engines is now a critical competency for senior engine room personnel, who must prepare for a future where traditional bunkering procedures are replaced by complex, high-pressure gas transfer operations during port calls.