Fabrum collaborates on high performance hydrogen-powered RIB boat

Sustainability

Fabrum,has collaborated on the design and build of a zero-emission hydrogen-powered boat H2Ocean with King Watercraft, a developer of sophisticated New Zealand made rigid inflatable boats. 

The H2Ocean hydrogen-powered rigid inflatable boat (RIB), a zero-emissions solution suitable for tourism, commercial and leisure activities, will begin sea trials in January 2025. The boat can be adapted to suit the environment and operations of the end user – and be equipped to carry up to 12 people, making it ideal for tourism and ferrying activities, or fewer people and specialist equipment, making it ideal for coastguard, servicing and event-based activities. The boat carries 18kg of 350 bar hydrogen gas, supplied to a fuel cell, which in turn maintains charging to a battery bank that is used to power the two electric stern legs.

Christopher Boyle, Fabrum’s Executive Chair, said: “It’s exciting to be enabling another world-leading zero-emissions hydrogen project with our high-performance hydrogen-powered RIB boat. In collaboration with King Watercraft, we are bringing our expertise in hydrogen propulsion systems to this project, which showcases how hydrogen can support a new future pathway for the marine industry to decarbonise. This initiative has added significance as our companies are based in Christchurch, fast becoming known as the Hydrogen City of New Zealand.”

“Hydrogen's adaptability to different sectors and capability to meet the diverse energy needs of industries with varying power and operational requirements underscores the potential for hydrogen to be a cornerstone of the future energy landscape to support global decarbonisation efforts, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enable energy security and sustainability. The Fabrum team is committed to leading the way with world-leading zero-emission hydrogen projects.”

Related Articles
Reasons for biogas optimism despite global challenges
The global biogas market was estimated to be worth USD 65.53 billion in 2024 and is projected to expand 4.2% per year between 2025 and 2032
Paving the path to sustainability
The quarrying industry, essential for supplying raw materials for construction and infrastructure development, faces critical environmental challenges. Energy-intensive processes, emissions and...
Wyma mud towers and Bonfiglioli save water in food processing
Sustainability is a significant priority for the agriculture sector, with organisations seeking out solutions that enable a reduction in water usage and waste disposal. New Zealand-based manufacturer...