ZEVI funding for hydrogen fuelled ZEPHR USV and Thames refilling station

As part of the project, SEA-KIT will partner Marine2o, a London company focused on decarbonising the maritime sector, for the build of land-based infrastructure to produce green hydrogen.

The ZEPHR (Zero Emissions Ports Hydrogen Refilling Survey Vessel) project aims to extend vessel operation for port operators and stakeholders through complete energy transferal, from readily accessible green electricity to 100 per cent green hydrogen production, compression, storage and dispensing.

Marine Zero, a UK engineering design and sustainability specialist, will support Marine2o with regulatory compliance and the design and integration of the dispensing facility. Consortium partner the Port of London Authority (PLA) will host the hydrogen refilling station on the River Thames and operate the ZEPHR USV.

In a statement, John Dillon-Leetch, PLA’s port hydrographer, said: "Our support of this exciting project underlines our commitment to creating a Net Zero future on the tidal Thames. Embracing innovation and new fuel technologies utilised on ZEPHR will enable us to be more sustainable and efficient in the production of the essential hydrographic data and products that we provide to all mariners on the Thames.