Lloyd’s Register Issues First Guidance for Onboard Hydrogen Generation

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has published the maritime industry’s first dedicated Guidance Notes for onboard hydrogen generation, providing clarity on the safe design and integration of hydrogen generator technologies on ships.

The new Guidance Notes respond directly to growing interest from shipowners, yards and technology developers in producing hydrogen onboard using alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol and ammonia.

While hydrogen is widely seen as a key fuel for decarbonization, limited supply and availability of complex bunkering infrastructure significantly slow adoption in shipping. In addition, onboard storage may also pose challenges due to space demands and system complexity, adding further barriers to implementation.

Onboard hydrogen generation offers a practical bridge to the future of zero-emission shipping. By producing hydrogen directly on board, shipowners can avoid the need for space-demanding and complex compressed or liquefied hydrogen storage systems and eliminate dependence on the future development of widespread hydrogen supply chains and bunkering infrastructure. At the same time, they position themselves for compliance with tightening emission requirements and future decarbonization regulations.

However, onboard hydrogen generation also presents safety and regulatory challenges due to the presence of two gases or low-flashpoint fuels and the absence of mature international regulations. Drawing on established LR Rules