ClassNK has strengthened its safety standards for hydrogen carrier vessels, updating its rules to address the technical and operational requirements associated with transporting hydrogen by sea.
The revised requirements are aimed at supporting the safe design, construction and operation of membrane-type hydrogen carriers. They take into account the specific characteristics of hydrogen and the challenges involved in storing and transporting the gas in maritime conditions.
Hydrogen is attracting growing interest as a potential low-carbon energy source, while shipping is expected to play an important role in moving hydrogen between production and consumption centres. This has increased the need for clear technical standards covering specialised carrier vessels.
The updated ClassNK rules are expected to provide shipowners, shipbuilders and equipment manufacturers with a framework for developing hydrogen carriers that meet safety and reliability requirements.
The move also reflects the wider development of alternative-fuel and low-carbon shipping technologies as the maritime industry works to reduce emissions and support the transition to cleaner energy.
By strengthening its standards for hydrogen carriers, ClassNK is seeking to support the safe expansion of maritime hydrogen transport and the development of a global hydrogen supply chain.