The European Commission features zero-emission barge

On 25 May 2023, the company Future Proof Shipping (FPS) launched the world's first 100% hydrogen-fuelled container vessel,H2 Barge 1, in Rotterdam.  

Since the hydrogen is 100% green (produced with renewable energy), it is also the world's first emission-free barge. The barge received the very first A-Zero emission label issued in the Netherlands under a new national labelling scheme.

This was all made possible thanks to crucial support from the Interreg North Sea project Zero Emission Shipping North Sea (ZEM Ports NS), where FPS was a partner. The initiative was also supported by the EU Horizon project Flagships. 

As explained in this story, this was no easy task. The road to get there was full of unanswered questions and obstacles. But with EU funding and transnational cooperation, FPS were able to realise their bold vision, effecively making a giant leap towards mainstreaming green shipping. A second barge has already been retrofitted, and more are in the pipeline. 

The European Commission has now produced a video telling the story of this amazing endeavour. We are thrilled to present it below!

Use the links below to learn more about the ZEM Ports Emissions North Sea project and their impressive achievements.