Europe's hydrogen industry: mapped

Hundreds of dual-fuel vessels capable of running on clean fuels are currently on order or already entering service globally. Yet, despite fleet readiness, the vast majority continue to burn conventional marine diesel.

The industry is stuck in a waiting game. Vessel operators are ready to transition, but clean fuels cannot yet compete on price with fossil fuels. At the same time, ports and fuel suppliers cannot commit to large-scale infrastructure investments without guaranteed, cost-effective off-take.

Because hydrogen is the fundamental building block for all clean maritime fuels, whether direct hydrogen, e-methanol, or green ammonia, achieving cost parity at the electrolyser level is the single most urgent priority for shipping decarbonisation.

Solving the green hydrogen cost problem is how we will achieve fossil-fuel cost parity without long-term taxpayer drag.

Through homegrown UK technology, the GreenMar consortium is changing the unit economics of green hydrogen to break through this, protect industrial supply chains, and unlock a major global export market.

Removing the Technology Bottlenecks I GreenMar Blueprint

To bring green fuel costs to a point where they compete directly with existing fuels, the GreenMar consortium solves the core technical and environmental barriers that have historically held legacy electrolysers back.

Led by Supercritical Solutions alongside a dedicated group of UK partners, the blueprint tackles every link in the value chain through a unified technological architecture:

• Increasing efficiency and eliminating compression costs (Supercritical): Traditional electrolysers produce low-pressure gas, requiring heavy, power-hungry mechanical compressors to reach maritime storage pressures. Supercritical's ultra-efficient, membraneless technology natively outputs hydrogen at high pressure, stripping out massive CAPEX and energy losses.
• Protecting water resources (Waterwhelm): Electrolysis demands high-purity freshwater, creating severe water scarcity issues. Waterwhelm uses forward osmosis powered by waste heat to transform local wastewater effluent into high-purity electrolyser feedstock, requiring no new freshwater.
• Direct diesel displacement (PlusZero): High-pressure hydrogen is deployed by PlusZero into Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (HICE) at Forth Ports, delivering clean shore power and direct vessel refuelling to replace diesel immediately, both onshore and offshore.
• Pioneering adopter (Forth Ports): An organisation collaborating to explore emerging  technology, leading the way to develop capabilities to meet their net zero goals and sustain long-term business value.
• Planet-First Engineering: Legacy systems rely heavily on scarce precious metals like iridium and persistent "forever chemicals" (PFAS). The Supercritical architecture replaces fragile membranes and critical raw materials with a robust, all-metal stack design.
• Scaling UK Manufacturing (Manufacturing Technology Centre - MTC): The MTC provides advanced manufacturing expertise to scale stack production efficiently within the UK.
• Strategic Advisory & Investment Backing: The initiative is supported by strategic technical advisory and investment from supportive industrial backers.

By targeting a levelised cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of £4/kg, this collective effort establishes a viable alternative to fossil fuels in maritime that works within market realities.

An Engine for UK Jobs and Exports

Solving maritime decarbonisation is both an environmental necessity and an opportunity to insulate the UK economy from the fossil fuel price rollercoaster.

By anchoring technology, intellectual property, and supply chains in the UK, this approach creates high-skilled engineering jobs, revitalises port communities, and protects industrial clusters from wholesale energy spikes. As UK nameplate manufacturing scales toward 1GW, this homegrown solution offers an exportable platform to decarbonise global trade routes and drive economic growth.

This week in London, the Extraordinary Marine Environment Protection Committee of the IMO meets to decide on the adoption of the Net Zero Framework (NZF). Adoption of the NZF would make the shipping industry a leader in Net Zero ambition: the first ever to have binding emissions reduction mandates. 

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Supercritical stands with industry leaders across shipping, renewables, and the e-fuels sectors in support of the Net Zero Framework. This is a once in a generation opportunity to bring shipping emissions down, in line with a 2050 target for Net Zero. The NZF is a key first step in increasing the use of e-fuels: building scale and supply chains now, so e-fuels can provide cheap and sustainable fuel well into the future. 

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According to the IMO’s latest GHG Study (2020), the total GHG emissions of the shipping industry was 1,076 million tonnes in 2018 [1]. Due to the continuous increase in global maritime trade, emissions in this sector are a growing issue, with a 9.6% increase in GHG emissions from 2012-2018. Emissions from this sector, as of 2018, make up 2.89% of total global anthropogenic emissions, roughly equivalent to the entire emissions output of Japan [2]. 

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As the global regulator for the shipping industry, the IMO’s member states have the power to adopt the NZF. This would, for the first time, enforce globally binding regulations to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within shipping, with the aim of achieving Net Zero by 2050 [3]. If passed with two-thirds of eligible (present and party to the MARPOL treaty, Annex VI) member states in support, the measures will enter into force from Spring 2027, effective 1st January 2028. To do this, the NZF would adopt Global Fuel Standards (GFS), requiring successive reduction in the GHG intensity of shipping fuels [4]. A minimum 20% reduction by 2030, 70% by 2040, and the achievement of a Net Zero industry by 2050. Additional schemes will be set up to aid in the fuels transitions, and a credit trading scheme will be implemented, whereby vessels with lower emissions can sell carbon credits to higher emitting vessels. 

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Whilst the adoption of the NZF will be a significant step towards achieving Net Zero in the shipping industry, fears regarding member-state compliance and insufficient support for e-fuels remain.

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The US administration has declared strong opposition to the NZF, describing the proposal as a “European-led neocolonial export of global climate regulations” which would cause "disastrous" economic impacts [5]. In an attempt to thwart a vote in favour, the US has threatened significant action against nations that support the framework: blocking vessels from entering U.S ports, sanctioning officials and imposing visa restrictions, commercial penalties, and additional port fees. In the first day of the IMO session, roughly 15 nations have voiced concern over the framework, including fossil-fuel nations such as Saudi Arabia and Russia [6]. Although there are strong reasons to worry about compliance from all member states, there remains widespread support for the NZF, with at least 46 nations making positive statements in support of the framework. 

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Regarding e-fuels support, the NZF does set a specific target of 5% zero or near-zero fuel (ZNZs) use by 2030 and states that a portion of revenues raised will be earmarked for the reward of ZNZs use, incentivising investment to increase the commercial maturity of e-fuels. 

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However, there is a lack of detail that risks undermining the long-term prospects of e-fuel use. For instance, the definition of ZNZs relates to the GHG emissions intensity only (19gCO2e/MJ till 2035, then 14gCO2e/MJ) and there has been no differentiation between solutions [7]. Thus, even though bio-fuels face considerable constraints on sustainable supply of their feedstock relative to future shipping demand, it would be considered of the same class as fuel derived solely from renewables, e-fuels, which are eminently scalable. There is a risk that, without further distinguishing between types of ZNZs, the IMO rewards and over encourages use of transitional fuels in the short term to the detriment of investment in e-fuels, compromising their ability to emerge as the lowest-cost option as quickly as possible. 

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Supercritical is already at the forefront of e-fuels development, working with key partners on e-methanol and green ammonia development. 

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We are currently working on a groundbreaking e-methanol project, evaluating the impact of integrating Supercritical’s high pressure, ultra-efficient, membraneless electrolyser into HAMR Energy’s hybrid methanol plant design [8]. This pioneering consortium will de-risk the concept for progression to pilot stage and, in the coming years, commercial deployment of Supercritical’s technology. 

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Furthermore, Supercritical has successfully completed a study into green ammonia, GreeNH3, in partnership with Scottish Power, Proton Ventures, and the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero [9]. This project explored the feasibility of integrating Supercritical’s electrolyser into a traditional Haber-Bosch ammonia synthesis loop, designed by Proton Ventures, for the production of ammonia at demonstrator and commercial scale. Findings show that Supercritical’s LCOH at 200 bar is predicted to be significantly lower than current incumbent technologies at commercial scale, resulting in a favourable levelised cost of ammonia. 

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Supercritical’s experience highlights the fact that if the NZF is passed, hydrogen (and derivatives) producers will be better positioned to secure commercial offtake and solidify supply chains, stimulating the investment needed to continue the important innovation already underway. An early transition, supported by global regulation, is critical to the future competitiveness of e-fuels and driving long-term emissions strategy within the industry.

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Want to speak to one of our team about how our technology could drive down the cost of your marine fuel? Contact sales@supercritical.solutions.

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Author: Rebecca Tekleyesus, Commercial and Market Analyst, Supercritical Solutions

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[1]https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/OurWork/Environment/Documents/Fourth%20IMO%20GHG%20Study%202020%20-%20Full%20report%20and%20annexes.pdf

[2]https://www.energypolicy.columbia.edu/publications/practical-gaps-in-the-international-maritime-organizations-net-zero-framework/

[3]https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pressbriefings/pages/imo-approves-netzero-regulations.aspx

[4]https://globalmaritimeforum.org/oped/shippings-new-net-zero-framework-where-to-next/

[5]https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/10/taking-action-to-defend-america-from-the-uns-first-global-carbon-tax-the-international-maritime-organizations-imo-net-zero-framework-nzf

[6]https://www.hydrogeninsight.com/transport/green-hydrogen-shipping-boom-majority-of-countries-in-favour-of-imo-net-zero-framework-on-first-day-of-crucial-meeting/2-1-1886464

[7]https://www.u-mas.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/UMAS-Assessing-the-IMOs-Net-Zero-Framework-1.pdf

[8]https://www.supercritical.solutions/post/hamr-energy-and-supercritical-to-shake-up-the-world-of-methanol-with-groundbreaking-government-backed-green-partnership

[9]https://www.supercritical.solutions/case-studies/greenh3

A Pivotal Moment in Hydrogen’s Evolution

July 2024 has marked a significant milestone for the hydrogen industry, with seven major projects around the world achieving Final Investment Decision (FID) status. These projects underscore a growing confidence in hydrogen as a critical component of the global energy transition. However, as we celebrate these developments, it’s also crucial to address the broader conversation about hydrogen’s role. Hydrogen is a powerful tool—but like any tool, it’s not the answer to every problem.

The Power of Seven: Projects Reaching FID in July 2024

These seven projects represent a critical step forward, each contributing to the global hydrogen economy’s growth. Yet, they also remind us of the importance of strategic deployment—focusing on areas where hydrogen can deliver the most impact.

Sector-Specific Insights: Where Hydrogen Truly Shines

1. Chemical Industrysome text
   • Shell, Germany: Shell’s investment in integrating hydrogen technology at its new chemicals facility highlights hydrogen’s irreplaceable role in decarbonising the chemical sector. In processes where hydrogen is fundamental—such as ammonia and methanol production—there’s simply no substitute. The industry’s reliance on approximately 97 million tonnes of fossil hydrogen annually makes it a prime candidate for green hydrogen solutions.
   • BP, Castellon Refinery, Spain: BP’s decision to implement a green hydrogen production facility at its Castellon refinery in Spain underscores the growing shift towards cleaner chemical processes. This project is a clear example of hydrogen’s potential in reducing the carbon footprint of heavy industries.
   • Yara, Paraguay: Yara’s commitment to offtake 100% of the green hydrogen-based fertilisers from ATOME’s 145 MW project in Paraguay further demonstrates the essential role hydrogen plays in agriculture and chemical manufacturing. These sectors cannot achieve deep decarbonisation without green hydrogen.
2. Industrial Applicationssome text
   • Siemens Energy and EWE, Germany: The installation of a 280 MW electrolysis system by Siemens Energy for EWE in Germany highlights how hydrogen is transforming industrial processes. While hydrogen’s application in industries is crucial, it’s important to recognise that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Strategic application is key, particularly where electrification isn’t feasible or sufficient.
3. Transportsome text
   • bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited, UK: In the transportation sector, hydrogen has a clear role, especially in hard-to-electrify segments like heavy-duty vehicles. The establishment of a renewable hydrogen facility in Aberdeen by bp is a step in the right direction, targeting the specific needs of the transport sector in Scotland and beyond.
   • Virya Energy, HyoffGreen, and Messer Group, Belgium: The 25 MW renewable hydrogen production plant set to be developed in Zeebrugge, Belgium, is another example of hydrogen’s versatile applications. While hydrogen can play a crucial role in transport, it’s essential to focus on sectors where it offers distinct advantages over other energy sources.
4. Energy Integration and Renewable Linkagessome text
   • TotalEnergies and RWE, Netherlands: The collaboration between TotalEnergies and RWE in the Netherlands, which links a wind farm with a 350 MW electrolyser project, showcases an ideal use of hydrogen. By directly connecting renewable energy sources to hydrogen production, this project illustrates a sustainable approach that maximises efficiency and impact.

A Global Perspective on Hydrogen’s Growth

The geographic spread of these projects—from Europe to South America (with the USA conspicuously absent)—illustrates hydrogen’s global appeal. Yet, it also highlights the need for a focused approach:

• Europe: Leading the way with projects in Germany, Spain, the UK, the Netherlands, and Belgium, Europe is demonstrating how hydrogen can be integrated into existing industrial and energy frameworks. However, this integration must be strategic, targeting sectors where hydrogen provides the greatest value.
• South America: The Paraguay project emphasises the potential for hydrogen to support agricultural and chemical sectors in emerging markets, reinforcing the idea that hydrogen’s role should be tailored to specific regional needs.

Rationalising the Hydrogen Hype: Focused Applications for Maximum Impact

While the seven FID projects in July are a cause for celebration, they also serve as a reminder that hydrogen’s potential is maximised when applied thoughtfully. The industry must move beyond the hype and focus on where hydrogen can be most effective.

Hydrogen is not the answer for everything, everywhere. The industry’s challenge is to concentrate efforts on sectors where hydrogen is not just useful but indispensable. The chemical industry, heavy industry, and certain segments of transportation are prime examples. In these areas, hydrogen can provide solutions that no other technology currently offers.

Supercritical’s Role: Innovating for a Targeted Hydrogen Future

At Supercritical, we recognise the need for a focused approach. Our technology is designed to make green hydrogen economically viable in the sectors that need it most. By reducing production costs by upto 40%, we are helping to bridge the gap to price parity, ensuring that hydrogen can compete where it matters.

Our mission is clear: to drive innovation in hydrogen technology where it can have the greatest impact, supporting a sustainable and economically sensible energy transition.

A Clear Path Forward

The FID announcements of July 2024 mark a significant step forward in the hydrogen journey. But as we move forward, it’s essential to keep our focus sharp. Hydrogen’s future lies in targeted, impactful applications. By concentrating on sectors where hydrogen can deliver the most value, we can ensure that it plays a pivotal role in the global energy transition.

At Supercritical, we are committed to leading this charge, ensuring that hydrogen’s role in our energy future is both economical and strategically sound. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with hydrogen, let’s remember that ambition must be balanced with pragmatism. The July 2024 projects provide a blueprint for how hydrogen can be successfully integrated into the global energy mix—when used wisely and where it’s needed most. Together, let’s build a hydrogen economy that is sustainable and profit-making.