Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with Stena Line, PowerCell Group, Linde Gas, and the Port of Gothenburg, has successfully demonstrated its HyFlex™ hydrogen-based energy supply system—an innovative, zero-emission solution aimed at transforming port and maritime energy infrastructure.
During a two-week pilot, HyFlex™ generated electricity using green hydrogen while connected to the existing shore power grid serving one of Stena Line’s ferry vessels. The test marked a significant step in validating hydrogen fuel cell technology for maritime use, particularly in advance of upcoming EU regulations requiring all ships over 5,000 gross tonnage to connect to onshore power supply (OPS) or deploy zero-emission solutions while docked by 2030.
“For Stena Line, it’s natural to collaborate on technology that reduces emissions from our sector. HyFlex shows ports with limited grid capacity can still access sustainable alternatives,” said Anders Peterson, Group Head of Port Development & Engineering at Stena Line.
Portable, Scalable, and Emission-Free
HyFlex™ is a flexible, mobile, plug-and-play system that delivers electricity, heat, and water without emissions. It is designed to be rapidly deployed in diverse environments—from ship terminals to off-grid construction sites—offering grid support or replacing diesel generators. A 1 MVA HyFlex™ unit can help reduce up to 1,600 tons of diesel fuel annually, avoiding approximately 5,800 tons of CO₂ emissions.
The test also demonstrated HyFlex’s ability to provide grid-balancing services, with real-time data collection helping to refine the system for future commercial use.
“We’re pleased with the results of this collaboration,” said Tobias Hansson, Country Managing Director at Hitachi Energy Sweden. “HyFlex has enormous potential—from ports to construction—and this project confirms its versatility as a clean energy solution.”
Supporting the Energy Transition
This latest deployment builds on previous success at the Port of Gothenburg, where HyFlex™ powered an electric excavator at a decarbonized construction site—the first demonstration of its kind. The system’s modular design ensures it can scale to meet the energy demands of various sectors while helping industrial and infrastructure players transition to fossil-free operations.
The project underscores the importance of industry collaboration in accelerating hydrogen adoption and achieving climate goals in challenging sectors such as shipping, where electrification alone may not be feasible.
