Hitachi Energy Demonstrates Hydrogen-Fueled Shore Power System at Port of Gothenburg

Hitachi Energy has just wrapped up a groundbreaking two-week trial at the Port of Gothenburg, putting its innovative HyFlex hydrogen-powered generator to the test. The system was paired with a shore power system to deliver clean, emission-free electricity to ships docked in the harbor—offering a much-needed alternative to diesel generators. The pilot took place in May 2025 and marked a big step toward cleaner port operations.

A Team Effort Backed by the EU

This wasn’t a solo effort. Stena Line, PowerCell Group, Linde Gas, and local port authorities all teamed up, with support and partial funding (40%, to be exact) from the EU Horizon 2030 Clean Ports Initiative. Together, they demonstrated that hydrogen fuel cells aren’t just talk—they’re a real solution for maritime decarbonization. Here’s what stood out:

• Powered entirely by hydrogen fuel cells with zero tailpipe emissions
• Cut operational costs by 15–20% compared to diesel-powered systems
• In sync with EU 2030 regulations on shore power for vessels

Next Stop: The Baltic

Looking ahead, they’re getting ready to ramp things up. The next round of testing—slated for 2026—will move into even tougher waters, targeting ice-class vessels operating in Baltic ports. That’s where this tech will really be put through its paces.

This pilot is more than a one-off success—it’s a glimpse of what’s coming. As global shipping works toward zero-emission technology, breakthroughs like this show the growing potential of green hydrogen and hydrogen fuel cells to drive the transformation of ports and power systems around the world.