Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd, a subsidiary of Yanmar Holdings, has announced that its Maritime Hydrogen Fuel Cell System has achieved Type Approval from DNV, one of the world's leading classification societies.
This certification represents a significant milestone in the commercialisation and global deployment of hydrogen fuel cell technology for marine applications.
The approval confirms that the GH-FC series complies with DNV's industry leading rules and guidelines, enabling shipbuilders, system integrators, and vessel operators to adopt the technology with greater confidence and reduced certification burden for future projects.
"Achieving DNV Type Approval represents a major milestone in our journey to bring hydrogen-powered solutions to the marine market,” said Masaru Hirose, President and Representative Director of Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd. “Building on our operational experience in Japan, we aim to support customers around the world in their transition to zero-emission operations and realise sustainable maritime transportation."
Eric Tigelaar, Department Manager of Commercial Marine Department at Yanmar Europe stated: "This certification strengthens our ability to support customers throughout Europe and beyond who are seeking practical pathways toward decarbonisation. The GH-FC series combines easy installation, operational flexibility, modularity and environmental performance, making it an attractive solution for a wide range of vessel applications."
Olaf Drews, Head of Engines & Pressurized Equipment, DNV Maritime, remarked: “We are very pleased to continue our cooperation with Yanmar and award them this latest Type Approval Award for their GH-FC series. Every step demonstrates the growing maturity of hydrogen fuel cell technology and continues to build confidence in the market and showcase its readiness for broader commercial applications. DNV is pleased to continue supporting innovative solutions that can help accelerate the transition toward zero-emission shipping.”
Building on decades of expertise in marine propulsion and power generation, Yanmar has been developing hydrogen fuel cell technologies since 2015. The company commercialised its maritime fuel cell systems in 2023 and has continued to expand deployment in Japan through collaboration with shipowners, operators, and local governments pursuing decarbonised marine transportation solutions.
The certification marks an important step in moving Yanmar’s maritime hydrogen fuel cell technology from successful domestic deployment toward broader commercial adoption in international markets.