What's Happening?
ClassNK has officially added Japan's first hydrogen-fueled tugboat, TEN-OH, to its register. Built by TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Co., Ltd., the vessel is part of the Nippon Foundation Zero Emission Ships Project,
which aims to develop ships with zero CO2 emissions. ClassNK conducted extensive reviews of safety requirements and countermeasures for hydrogen-fueled ships, focusing on preventing explosions due to hydrogen's high ignitability and mitigating potential impacts of hydrogen fuel leakage on crew members and the environment. The vessel was added to the register on October 9, 2025, following the completion of necessary surveys in line with relevant class rules.
Why It's Important?
The certification of Japan's first hydrogen-fueled tugboat marks a significant step towards decarbonizing the maritime industry. Hydrogen fuel is considered a clean energy source, and its adoption in shipping could drastically reduce carbon emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. This development not only supports Japan's environmental goals but also sets a precedent for other countries and companies to follow suit. The successful implementation of hydrogen-fueled vessels could lead to broader adoption across the industry, potentially transforming maritime operations and contributing to global sustainability efforts.
What's Next?
ClassNK plans to continue supporting the safe operation of the vessel through ongoing surveys and aims to contribute to the establishment of appropriate international standards for hydrogen-fueled ships. This ongoing support will help ensure the vessel's operational safety and reliability, encouraging further innovation and adoption of hydrogen technology in the maritime sector. The knowledge gained from these surveys will be used to update guidelines and support the industry's decarbonization efforts.
