At the SMM trade fair in Hamburg last week, classification society DNV awarded Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Yanmar Holdings, type approval (TA) for its Maritime Hydrogen Fuel Cell System. This certification represents a significant milestone in the commercialization 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.

Masaru Hirose, President and Representative Director of Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd., said: “Achieving DNV Type Approval represents a major milestone in our journey to bring hydrogen-powered solutions to the marine market. Building on our operational experience in Japan, we aim to support customers around the world in their transition to zero-emission operations and realize 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 decarbonization. The GH-FC series combines easy installation, operational flexibility, modularity and environmental performance, [M剛2.1]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.”

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.