Naval architecture and marine engineering firm Glosten has been awarded an Approval in Principle (AIP). The Scripps Institution of Oceanography will operate the CCRV, which will feature an innovative propulsion system using Hydrogen-Hybrid fuel cells for zero-emissions operation.
Glosten and Siemens Energy (SE), the project’s electrical integrator, completed the preliminary design for the CCRV in March 2024. As an uninspected California Air Resource Board (CARB)–compliant, ABS-classed vessel and an alternative design under SOLAS, the CCRV faced a complex regulatory regime.
“Our challenge was to harmonize the requirements of a modern research vessel with evolving regulations and novel technologies for liquid hydrogen fuel. Ensuring the machinery spaces and Hydrogen-Hybrid systems were efficiently and safely arranged without compromising the utility of the vessel was like putting together an intricate puzzle,” said Glosten’s Robin Madsen, the lead marine engineer on the project.
Collaboration Paves the Way for Hydrogen-Powered Research Ship
“When it comes to a first-of-its-kind vessel like the CCRV, these are uncharted waters. It was up to our team to tap into our expertise and work with regulators, partners, subcontractors, and equipment providers to determine a sound approach,” said Madsen. “One of Glosten’s greatest strengths as a consultant is our ability to navigate this kind of uncharted regulatory terrain. It’s the difference between paint-by-numbers and a blank canvas. In one case, you know what you’ll be getting. On the other, you have the potential for something truly unique.”
In 2018, Glosten, Scripps Oceanography, Sandia National Laboratories, and DNV conducted a feasibility study. It was funded by MARAD and became the genesis of the CCRV. The study evaluated the technical, regulatory, and economic feasibility of the Zero-V concept. A vessel designed to meet Scripps’ performance and environmental criteria runs on fuel cells and liquid hydrogen.
The study confirmed that technology had advanced enough to make a hydrogen-powered research vessel possible. Rules and regulations regarding the use of hydrogen fuel are still being developed. During the CCRV’s preliminary design, Glosten worked closely with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and ABS. To define a regulatory approval framework for using liquid hydrogen aboard a research vessel.
“ABS is proud to use our industry-leading insight into Hydrogen-Hybrid as a marine fuel to support this project. The CCRV has the potential to make a significant contribution to the wider adoption of Hydrogen-Hybrid, a promising alternative fuel for the maritime industry,” said Gareth Burton, ABS senior vice president of global engineering.
Before submitting the AIP design, Glosten completed a week-long risk assessment workshop with the USCG, ABS, Scripps, Sandia, SE, and major equipment providers, Ballard Power Systems and Chart Industries.
Hydrogen-Hybrid Research Vessel Gets Green Light
AIP shows that the CCRV design meets ABS’s technical requirements and safety standards. But more broadly, it validates the use of Hydrogen-Hybrid fuel-cell propulsion for medium-sized coastal vessels. The CCRV will help Scripps and its researchers study the marine ecosystem along the California coast. It will run entirely on emissions-free hydrogen fuel cells for 75 percent of its missions.
“Our goal is to produce a fully capable ocean-going research vessel that meets the needs of our scientists and students. “We can demonstrate this in a way that minimizes its impact on our environment,” said Bruce Appelgate, associate director of Scripps and head of ship operations and marine technical support. “This will be a world-class oceanographic research vessel that aligns with our institutional values for protecting the planet.”
The CCRV will also serve as a vital platform for hands-on learning. As a student-centered, research-focused public university, UC San Diego considers seagoing experiences a cornerstone of educational programs. The vessel will be integral to training the next generation of scientists, leaders, and policymakers.
The project team is currently progressing the CCRV to a functional-level design and assisting Scripps. They have requested a proposal to begin solicitation for construction.
