Large-scale LH2 carrier: advancing hydrogen transport
TotalEnergies, GTT, LMG Marin France, and Bureau Veritas have collaborated to develop a large-scale vessel designed to transport 150,000 m³ of liquefied hydrogen (LH2 ). Equipped with a specialized membrane containment system, it marks an important step forward in positioning hydrogen as key to the energy transition.
A comprehensive study assessed the vessel’s design, equipment, containment system, and propulsion. The success is rooted in the partners’ extensive experience and technical expertise in energy and cryogenic maritime transportation.
TotalEnergies defined the vessel’s specifications, including its operational profile and CO2 emission targets, ensuring the design meets future decarbonisation needs. Meanwhile, GTT developed the membrane containment system, to handle hydrogen’s specific challenges at extremely low temperatures (-253°C), also working on the gas and liquid handling systems to optimize performance and safety.
LMG Marin France designed the vessel, integrating the containment system ensuring that the propulsion system and operational profile were aligned.
This holistic approach enabled the vessel to meet the demands of large-scale hydrogen transport. Bureau Veritas conducted a thorough risk assessment, reviewing the designs in accordance with the latest regulatory requirements and industry standards.
The collaboration has led to two key Approvals in Principle (AIPs) from Bureau Veritas, one for the containment system and the other for the vessel's overall design. confirming the strategic decisions made during the project as well as the vessel’s design integrity, and its suitability for the future hydrogen market.
This project demonstrates that large-scale hydrogen transport is feasible and viable. The vessel’s design sets a foundation for future alternative fuels transport, advancing global decarbonization goals.
