GMI Group adds hydrogen-electric bulk carriers as cost modeling favors batteries

· Climate · Norway

Norwegian shipping company GMI Group is pressing ahead with four hydrogen-electric bulk carriers for coastal freight. In October 2026, PowerCell confirmed a follow-up order that brings the program to 24 marine fuel-cell units with 5.4 MW of combined installed capacity. The first two ships are rated at 4,000 deadweight tonnes. Alongside the order news, cost modeling of two routes found that batteries beat hydrogen for bulk carriers on cost. The program is one of several efforts to decarbonize short-sea shipping, where vessels operate on fixed routes that suit refueling and recharging infrastructure. The follow-up order signals continued supplier confidence even as battery alternatives look cheaper in some modeled cases.

Why it matters：Marine fuel-cell orders and competing battery cost models shape which propulsion technology short-sea shipping adopts as decarbonization rules tighten.

Key points

  • PowerCell's follow-up order brings the program to 24 marine fuel-cell units totaling 5.4 MW.
  • The first two vessels are rated at 4,000 deadweight tonnes for coastal freight.
  • Cost modeling of two routes found batteries cheaper than hydrogen for bulk carriers.

Sources (original reporting)

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