Singapore's Proteus Energy Unveils Hydrogen Fuel Cell Solution to Decarbonize Maritime Sector

Proteus Energy, a clean energy solutions provider headquartered in Singapore, has officially launched its innovative Proteus Maritime Fuel Cell Solution. This modular system harnesses the power of hydrogen fuel cells to provide a sustainable energy source for both port operations and a diverse range of vessels.

The Proteus Maritime Fuel Cell Solution is built upon individual fuel cell stacks, each delivering an output of 75 kW. These stacks can be seamlessly integrated and scaled to meet the specific power demands of various applications. Proteus Energy envisions its technology as a key enabler for cleaner operations in harbor craft, coastal vessels, offshore support ships, and those navigating inland waterways.

This cutting-edge technology is the result of a strategic collaboration with Symbio France, a leading hydrogen fuel cell company. The resulting system boasts significant environmental and operational advantages. It produces zero tailpipe emissions, contributing directly to improved air quality in port cities and marine environments. Furthermore, the system operates with minimal noise and vibration, enhancing crew comfort and reducing disturbance to marine life. Operators can also expect lower maintenance costs due to the inherent reliability of fuel cell technology. Refueling with hydrogen is a swift process, minimizing operational downtime. Importantly, hydrogen fuel can be stored for extended periods without degradation, offering logistical flexibility.

Understanding Cables in Maritime Applications

The efficient distribution of power generated by solutions like the Proteus Maritime Fuel Cell Solution relies heavily on robust and specialized electrical cables. In the maritime sector, cables face a unique set of challenges, including exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as saltwater, extreme temperatures, constant vibrations, and potential mechanical stress. Therefore, marine-grade cables are engineered with specific features to ensure safety, reliability, and longevity.

Key considerations in marine cable design include:

• Conductor Material: Copper is the most common conductor material due to its excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. Tin-coated copper conductors offer enhanced protection against saltwater corrosion.

• Insulation: Marine cables utilize various insulation materials, such as cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), each offering different levels of thermal resistance, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and abrasion. Halogen-free options are increasingly preferred to minimize the release of toxic fumes in case of fire.

• Sheathing: The outer sheath provides mechanical protection, resistance to abrasion, oil, and sunlight, and can also offer flame retardancy. Common sheathing materials include PVC, polyurethane (PUR), and chloroprene rubber (neoprene).

• Armoring: For added mechanical protection against impacts and crushing forces, particularly in demanding applications or where cables are exposed to physical stress, marine cables can incorporate metallic armoring, such as braided steel wire or galvanized steel wire braid.

• Flexibility: Marine cables, especially those used in dynamic applications or where space is constrained, are designed with high flexibility to withstand bending and movement without damage.

• Certifications: Marine cables must comply with stringent international and regional standards set by organizations such as Lloyd's Register, DNV, ABS, and Bureau Veritas to ensure they meet the safety and performance requirements for maritime use. These certifications cover aspects like flame retardancy, smoke emission, and resistance to environmental factors.

The integration of advanced power generation systems like hydrogen fuel cells necessitates the use of high-quality, appropriately specified marine cables to ensure the safe and efficient transfer of electrical energy throughout the vessel or port infrastructure. Selecting the correct type and rating of cable is crucial for the overall performance and safety of the maritime power system.

Proteus Energy anticipates that its Proteus Maritime Fuel Cell Solution will be commercially available for delivery starting in January 2026.

“The maritime industry is at a critical juncture and urgently requires practical and effective clean energy alternatives,” stated Lars Gruenitz, CEO of Proteus Energy. “Our Proteus Maritime Fuel Cell Solution delivers a high energy density in a compact and lightweight design, which are paramount considerations for vessels where space and weight are critical constraints. We believe this best-in-class system presents the logical and most economically sound pathway for operators looking to achieve significant progress in their decarbonization strategies.”

Feichun Cable: Powering a Sustainable Future. Feichun Cable is a dedicated provider of high-quality electrical cables designed for diverse applications. We are committed to supporting the advancement of clean energy technologies by offering reliable and durable cable solutions that meet the stringent demands of modern power systems. Our expertise ensures that your critical infrastructure is powered safely and efficiently.

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