An agreement between internationally respected engineering firm Dynamic Efficiency and Poseidon Marine H2 is expected to deliver a hydrogen-powered boat in the next 18 months.

By Q3, 2023, the two companies aim to have an emissions-free, hydrogen-powered boat on Australian waters as part of Poseidon Marine’s goal to capitalise on the rapidly growing demand for technology set to decarbonise the maritime industry.

Dynamic Efficiency principal engineers Peter Mastalir and Kevin Morgan will lead the development of the pleasure craft, marking an important step towards providing a clean solution for a sector that makes up 2.5% of global emissions.

A series of tests are underway to decide on the best commercial solution for the craft. A spokesperson for Poseidon H2 says the company was excited to be able to on board the industry-leading expertise of Mastalir and Morgan, both of whom have also joined its board.

“We are thrilled to be working closely with the pair, who have a proven track record spearheading some of Australia’s most innovative mechanical and electrical engineering projects,” the spokesperson said.

“Their expertise from design to construction will prove critical to seeing a hydrogen-fuelled boat in Australian waters in the next 18 months and play a pivotal role in meeting the global demand for decarbonising the maritime industry.”

Levering the tech of today

Mastalir and Morgan, who boast a combined 75 years’ of experience leading large-scale mechanical-based projects, are looking at taking the hull of an existing craft and redesigning the fit out in line with the emerging hydrogen tech.

A series of tests will then be conducted to identify which state-of-the-art solution is best suited for powering a vessel through hydrogen and scalable across markets.

A rigorous 10-month research and development process will take place, which ensure they construct the most commercially viable option.

“We intend to use existing technologies as much as possible, which is why we are looking to use an existing hull design with a unique upper deck and internal layout,” Mastalir said.

“Our number one goal is to build a better boat; it just happens to be that it will be powered by hydrogen.

“The brief is to ensure it has an equivalent operational range, requires less maintenance and is cheaper to run than traditional fuel sources like diesel.”

Once commercialised Poseidon H2 says it expects quick uptake by significant players in the industry, as most of the infrastructure for a carbon-free boat is already at hand.

 

This article was developed in collaboration with Poseidon Marine H2, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

 

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.

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