Chowgule Reels in Order for Two Hydrogen-Powered Cargo Ships at SMM

Indian shipbuilder Chowgule Shipbuilding has signed a deal to construct two hydrogen fuel cell-powered Ecoflex coastal bulkers for Norwegian owner Green Maritime Infrastructure. Announced at SMM 2026 in Hamburg, the two 3,000-deadweight-tonne bulk vessels will form part of the owner's growing zero-emission fleet. Fitted with German-supplied hydrogen fuel-cell technology and powered by green hydrogen, the vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029.

 

Details of the Order

 

Chowgule Shipbuilding has secured a new order. It will build two hydrogen-powered vessels. These are Ecoflex coastal bulkers. The order comes from a Norwegian owner. That owner is Green Maritime Infrastructure.

The deal was announced at a major event. It was inked at SMM 2026 in Hamburg. This was among several shipbuilding deals there. The order stands out for its hydrogen focus. It reflects growing interest in zero-emission vessels.

 

The Vessel Design

 

The vessels have a specific design. They were designed by Naval Dynamics. They are Ecoflex bulk vessels. Each has a 3,000-deadweight-tonne capacity. They are designed for coastal operations.

The vessels serve a clear purpose. They will join a zero-emission fleet. This fleet belongs to the owner. It continues to grow. These vessels add to that expansion.

 

Read More: https://oceaneconomist.com/articles/hanwha-ocean-arctic-lng2-claim

 

The Hydrogen Technology

 

The vessels use advanced propulsion. They feature hydrogen fuel-cell technology. A German specialist supplies this. The systems include hydrogen storage. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are also included.

The technology is comprehensive. It integrates power management systems. Control and safety systems feature too. Each vessel uses green hydrogen. This powers 1.2 MW of fuel cells.

 

Significance of the Order

 

The order reflects decarbonisation trends. Hydrogen offers zero-emission potential. Green hydrogen is particularly clean. The vessels demonstrate this technology. They advance zero-emission coastal shipping.

The order also reflects growing Indian capability. Chowgule will build the vessels. Delivery is scheduled for 2029. This showcases Indian shipbuilding. It also supports the owner's fleet growth.