Project Lead
The project is led by Newlight, a company specialising in hybrid hydrogen solutions to reduce emissions and energy consumption in diesel engines operating in industrial and maritime environments.
Project Description
This innovation case presents a hydrogen–diesel hybrid system specifically designed for the maritime sector, enabling the conversion of conventional diesel engines into hybrid engines without the need for replacement or major structural modifications.
This solution follows a plug-and-play approach: it operates immediately after being connected, without the need for complex configurations. It is easy to install and engineered to perform under demanding marine conditions. The system combines controlled hydrogen injection with the standard operation of the diesel engine to improve combustion and increase efficiency. According to the company, this setup can reduce fuel consumption by up to 30% and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60%.
Additionally, the device includes real-time monitoring capabilities for both performance and emissions, enabling more precise operational control and supporting compliance with the IMO’s decarbonisation targets for 2030 and 2050.
The technology provides a practical, affordable, and immediate pathway to accelerate emissions reductions in commercial fleets that cannot undertake full engine or vessel replacements.
The startup was selected by PortXL, one of the most renowned international accelerators in port and maritime innovation, linked to the Port of Rotterdam.
The project is currently in a pre-commercialisation phase, with the technology already validated in factory tests and preparing to enter a pilot phase on board the first commercial vessel through Harbor Acceptance Testing (HAT), supervised by RINA, a naval classification society and technical certification body.
Project Objectives
The main objective is to provide the maritime sector with a hydrogen–diesel hybrid solution that significantly reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions without requiring large investments or complete engine replacements.
The project also supports the transition towards more sustainable maritime transport through a scalable technology compatible with existing engines and aligned with the sector’s decarbonisation needs.
Publication Date
28 November 2025
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