HyAxiom And Shell Launch Bold Collaboration To Power Zero-Carbon Shipping With Next-Generation Fuel Cell Technology

The race to decarbonize maritime transport just got a major boost. HyAxiom, a fuel cell and hydrogen technology pioneer, has partnered with Shell and a consortium of industry heavyweights to bring solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology to deep-sea carriers. This ambitious demonstration project aims to prove that advanced fuel cells can meaningfully cut carbon emissions from one of the world’s most carbon-intensive industries.

A Coalition Takes Shape Around SOFC Technology

The agreement, finalized in Seoul, South Korea, brings together some of shipping’s most influential players: Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Ltd, Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co. (KSOE), classification society DNV, and fuel cell manufacturer Doosan Fuel Cell Co. (DFCC). Together, they’re planning to launch a demonstration vessel by 2025 that will operate using a HyAxiom-developed SOFC Auxiliary Power Unit (APU).

The vessel will run on a dual 300-kilowatt system, marking one of the most significant real-world tests of fuel cell technology in maritime applications. Over a full year of operation, the consortium will gather crucial data on how SOFC systems can be scaled and integrated into the existing and future fleet.

Why This Matters For The Shipping Industry

Maritime transport moves roughly 90% of global trade, yet the sector remains one of the hardest to decarbonize. Traditional ships rely on heavy fuel oil, making shipping a major contributor to global emissions. Unlike passenger aviation or road transport, there are no obvious drop-in alternatives for long-haul vessel propulsion—which is precisely why fuel cell technology represents such a compelling opportunity.

“Fuel cells are a critical technology to cut carbon emissions and help us combat climate change at scale,” noted HyAxiom CEO Jeff Hyungrak Chung. “HyAxiom is proud to partner with Shell to demonstrate the viability of solid oxide fuel cells as a low to zero carbon way to power the shipping industry.” The technology promises not just lower emissions, but the potential for near-zero operation when powered by green hydrogen.

How The Collaboration Works

Under the agreement, each party brings specific expertise to the table. HyAxiom will design and develop the SOFC APU system tailored for long-range maritime use. DFCC handles manufacturing and factory testing before delivery. Shell will charter and operate the demonstration vessel, providing the commercial context necessary to validate the technology. KSOE contributes its shipbuilding expertise for system integration and deployment, while DNV provides technical oversight and safety assurance throughout the project.

This division of labor reflects what many believe will become the standard model for energy transitions in hard-to-abate sectors: technology developers, energy majors, equipment manufacturers, and classification societies working in concert.

What The Industry Leaders Say

Shell’s SVP for Shipping and Maritime, Karrie Trauth, framed the initiative as part of a broader transition strategy: “This consortium and the cutting-edge technology we’re pioneering could help deliver less carbon-intensive operations in the near term while unlocking a pathway to net-zero through the blending of conventional and alternative fuels until zero-carbon options are available at scale.”

Sam-Hyun Ka, Vice Chair and CEO of KSOE, emphasized SOFC’s technical advantages: “SOFC is expected to be the more prominent and major power sources for vessels due to its excellent efficiency. HHI Group will continue to play a leading role with Shell, HyAxiom, DFCC & DNV for the development of future decarbonizing technology.”

DNV’s Regional Manager for Korea and Japan, Vidar Dolonen, added: “Solid Oxide Fuel Cells are a promising solution to progress on the decarbonization pathway, and we at DNV are happy to contribute our expertise to such an important demonstration project with leading industry players.”

Looking Ahead: From Demonstration To Deployment

The 2025 launch marks the beginning of a critical phase for HyAxiom and SOFC technology. The data collected during the year-long demonstration will provide the industry with real-world evidence on durability, efficiency, maintenance requirements, and operational costs—information that’s essential before shipping companies commit to fleet-wide conversions.

For HyAxiom, the project represents both validation of its technology and a gateway into the massive maritime market. The company, which traces its heritage back to UTC Power’s 50 years of fuel cell development and now leverages parent company Doosan Group’s manufacturing capabilities, has positioned itself at the intersection of hydrogen and industrial decarbonization.

Success in this demonstration could accelerate SOFC adoption beyond shipping, potentially opening pathways into other hard-to-decarbonize sectors where fuel cells offer similar promise. For now, though, all eyes are on 2025 and what HyAxiom’s technology can deliver when put to work on the open ocean.