Fuel cell systems are considered one way to reduce emissions from shipping. However, one challenge is to supply hydrogen on board ships while realistically simulating various operating conditions—from constant loads to dynamic load changes. A solution to this problem is now to be tested on a maritime test bench at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Kiel.

For this purpose, PowerCell Sweden AB is supplying an integrated fuel-to-power system valued at approximately 21 million Swedish kronor. The company is equipping the DLR test facility with two Marine System 225 fuel cell systems, two methanol reformers, a hydrogen buffer storage tank, a gas mixing system, and an integrated system control unit. Delivery is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026, with commissioning expected in the first half of 2027.

Technically, the solution is based on PowerCell’s M2Power platform, which is being adapted for the DLR’s research environment. The key approach involves first converting methanol into hydrogen. The hydrogen produced in this way is then fed into the PEM fuel cells, where it is converted into electrical energy. The reforming technology used for the project is provided by MReformer.

The system is designed to enable the DLR to simulate operating profiles of various ship types. In addition to stationary operating conditions, dynamic load cycles can also be investigated. The goal is to gain practical insights into the behavior of integrated fuel cell systems under realistic maritime conditions. The project is part of the “zero4cruise” initiative and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.

The approach thus combines standardized components with application-specific system integration. According to PowerCell, the operational knowledge gained from this project will help further develop fuel cell systems for various maritime applications in the future—ranging from onboard power supply and propulsion to energy supply in ports.

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