MARPOWER Tests Hydrogen Turbine Prototype
The research project completes system design, marking a move toward zero-emissions energy conversion for large-scale ships.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Energy
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The EU-funded MARPOWER project has finished its initial system design and component testing for a zero-emissions maritime gas turbine. The development, currently in the research stage, includes a combustion chamber prototype successfully operated on 100% hydrogen.
Why it matters
Maritime transport remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, and this project aims to address that by creating a high-efficiency energy conversion system. By validating key components like hydrogen-ready combustion chambers, the initiative seeks to establish a viable path toward shipboard decarbonization.
The system utilizes a two-shaft configuration with a 2.7 MW rotor capacity and active magnetic bearings for rotor support. A recuperator prototype, scaled at 1:100, successfully passed non-destructive testing at 22.3 bar, showing a 15% reduction in required coolant flow rates.
The players
MARPOWER
An EU-funded research initiative involving 11 partners across 6 countries dedicated to developing hydrogen-ready maritime propulsion systems.
The details
The turbine uses a two-shaft layout where active magnetic bearings—electromagnetic supports that suspend the rotor without physical contact—replace traditional mechanical bearings to reduce wear. The recuperator, a heat exchanger that recovers exhaust energy to preheat intake air, was manufactured using automated robotic laser welding to ensure structural integrity under high pressure. These components are modeled within a digital twin, a virtual replica of the physical system, which now tracks performance parameters.
Timeline
Technical advances were presented at international events throughout 2026.
The MARPOWER project is scheduled to conclude in August 2028.
The Tech Race
MARPOWER sits within a broader field of hydrogen-readiness research for heavy-duty marine engines. It competes against existing diesel-electric and dual-fuel configurations by focusing on a zero-emissions path through specialized turbine technology.
This technology remains in the design and prototype testing phase and is not yet available for commercial maritime deployment. Future adoption will depend on successful transition studies for container and cruise vessels currently scheduled through the project's completion in 2028.
The takeaway
The project demonstrates technical feasibility for hydrogen-based power at the component level, including successful 100% hydrogen combustion testing. Readers should watch for upcoming Technology Qualification Process certification filings to gauge the system's readiness for commercial marine integration.
What happens next
The project will initiate shipboard application assessments and move toward securing Approval in Principle and Technology Qualification Process certifications before its August 2028 conclusion.
Further reading
For broader trends in marine propulsion, see our coverage of Energy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Maritime Executive.
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