Prospects for the transition of shipping to hydrogen fuel: stages, costs and implementation examples

The need to consider ways to achieve environmental sustainability of the transportation industry in general and the navy in particular was noted. A comprehensive analysis of the prospects for the transition of the world and Russian marine fleets to hydrogen fuel has been carried out. The technological, economic, environmental and infrastructural aspects of this transformation are considered. Special attention is paid to the systematization of the transition stages, the quantification of capital and operating costs, as well as a comparative analysis of the environmental effect of hydrogen compared with alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas and ammonia. Specific Russian projects have been studied in detail, including the development of the Krylov State Scientific Center and the successful testing of a passenger ship powered by hydrogen fuel cells by Sitronics Group. Using the example of the latter, the step-by-step implementation process is considered in detail, from planning to commissioning, with an estimate of time and financial costs. Key barriers such as high cost, lack of infrastructure and safety issues have been identified, and scientifically sound recommendations have been formulated for the shipbuilding industry and government regulatory authorities. It is concluded that, despite significant challenges, the transition to hydrogen is a strategically important direction for achieving sustainable and environmentally friendly navigation.