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Class approval marks milestone for offshore hydrogen shipping concept
DRIFT Energy has secured an Approval in Principle from RINA for what the companies describe as the first energy harvesting ship design recognised by the classification society, advancing a concept that blends offshore renewable generation with maritime hydrogen transport.
The Bath based startup is developing sailing vessels designed to generate green hydrogen while underway at sea. Instead of carrying fuel from shore based production plants, the ships are intended to act as mobile energy platforms that produce, store, and deliver hydrogen directly to ports and industrial users.
RINA’s approval confirms that the vessel’s core design principles and safety framework align with class requirements and international regulations at a preliminary level. That clears the path for detailed engineering and potential construction of the first vessel.
Wind powered vessels target hydrogen production at sea
The concept relies on high performance sailing vessels operating in tradewind regions where wind conditions remain consistent. As the ships move, underwater turbines generate electricity that powers onboard electrolysers producing green hydrogen from seawater.
It is an approach that turns the vessel itself into a floating renewable energy asset. Rather than fixed offshore infrastructure, DRIFT is betting on mobility. The company says AI based routing systems will continuously reposition vessels into optimal wind conditions to maximise output.
Industry observers compare the model to a self filling tanker. The ship generates its own cargo during the voyage instead of loading at a terminal before departure.
Funding supports next development stage
DRIFT previously raised about £4.65 million in seed funding alongside Innovate UK support to complete vessel design work and prepare for first construction activity.
The AiP arrives as shipping, energy, and offshore sectors continue searching for scalable green fuel supply chains that can support maritime decarbonisation and industrial hydrogen demand.
