en.Wedoany.com Reported - Gotland Shipping has started construction of the hydrogen-ready ferry Horizon X at Austal shipyard. The ship is 130 meters long with a gross tonnage of 18,300 tons, capable of carrying 1,500 passengers and 400 vehicles at a speed of 30 knots. It is expected to be delivered in the summer of 2028.

Horizon X will initially use liquefied natural gas and diesel fuel, with a design that allows for a future transition to 100% hydrogen power. Jonas Moberg, head of newbuilding at Gotland Shipping, stated that maintaining a speed of nearly 30 knots on the route makes battery solutions unfeasible, leading the team to choose a fuel path with hydrogen as the long-term goal.

The propulsion system utilizes a Siemens Energy combined cycle unit with a total shaft power of 36.4 megawatts and an efficiency approaching 50%. Moberg noted that the combined cycle is a necessary condition for commercial viability. Michael Welch from Siemens Energy pointed out that the part-load efficiency of the SGT-400 platform plays a crucial role in ferry operations.

The hydrogen-ready design outlines a clear transition path. Moberg emphasized that hydrogen refueling requires supporting port storage and transmission facilities. The capital cost of Horizon X is approximately 25% higher than that of conventional vessels.

This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com