KR has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) on October 21 for the design of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC)-integrated hybrid Ro-Ro vessel jointly developed with HD Hyundai Mipo.

The approved concept features a hybrid propulsion design equipped with an approximately 300 kW-class SOFC system installed in a dedicated compartment. The system applies an LNG-fueled SOFC as an auxiliary power source alongside a conventional LNG generator. This hybrid setup extends operating endurance while reducing fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and other harmful pollutants.

The achievement demonstrates the potential of fuel-cell-based power systems to significantly reduce greenhouse gas and particulate emissions, supporting compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations and contributing to shipowners’ ESG objectives.

An HD Hyundai Mipo representative said, “This AiP confirms the competitiveness of our eco-friendly, high-efficiency vessel technology. We will continue to lead the development of next-generation, alternative-fuel vessels.”

A KR representative added, “This project is a meaningful example that confirms the practical potential of LNG-based fuel-cell hybrid technologies. KR will continue to support the development of innovative eco-friendly technologies across the maritime industry.”