PowerCell to Equip World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Bulk Carriers for GMI Rederi

PowerCell Sweden AB has announced a landmark contract to supply fuel cell systems for the world’s first hydrogen-powered bulk carriers, marking a major leap forward in sustainable maritime transport. The agreement, valued at just over SEK 40 million, covers the delivery of 14 Marine System 225 units to Norwegian shipping company GMI Rederi AS, along with engineering services. Deliveries are scheduled between 2026 and 2027.

Each of the two 85-meter-long bulk carriers, with a deadweight capacity of 4,000 tons, will be equipped with seven Marine System 225 fuel cell units. Together, they will generate over 3 MW of clean power, enabling the vessels to operate entirely emission-free by replacing traditional fossil fuels with renewable hydrogen. Upon their launch in early 2027, these will become the world’s first hydrogen-powered bulk carriers, setting a new standard for zero-emission shipping.

The vessels are being developed by GMI Rederi, with German ship integrator eCap Marine responsible for engineering, system integration, and certification of the hydrogen technology. The project is part of Norway’s Green Shipping Programme, a public–private initiative promoting maritime decarbonization. It has also received financial backing from the Norwegian government’s Enova fund and the NOx Fund, underscoring the strong policy and financial support for sustainable maritime solutions.

Stig Kallestad, Marine Director at PowerCell Group, highlighted the significance of this milestone, saying, “This project demonstrates that hydrogen fuel cells are no longer just pilot concepts — they are viable solutions for demanding shipping applications.”

PowerCell’s CEO, Richard Berkling, emphasized that regulatory frameworks such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations are accelerating the adoption of hydrogen technologies. “This is not only about two ships,” Berkling said, “it is about setting a new standard for zero-emission maritime transport.”

Torstein Holsvik, CEO of GMI Rederi, added that the decision to adopt hydrogen was based on a detailed evaluation of technology maturity, fuel availability, and cost-effectiveness. “We needed to think completely anew,” he said. “Compressed hydrogen with fuel cells emerged as the most future-ready solution.”

The order further strengthens PowerCell’s position as a global leader in hydrogen fuel cell systems for hard-to-abate sectors such as marine, aviation, and power generation. The Marine System 225 continues to expand its footprint across shipping segments, demonstrating flexibility and competitiveness across diverse vessel types.

Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, PowerCell is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and continues to deliver innovative hydrogen-electric solutions that help industries achieve net-zero emissions.

Source: Power Cell Sweden AB Press Release

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