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Navalprogetti is actively exploring sustainable alternatives to traditional ship fuels. While ship design remains largely unchanged, the company is focusing its innovation efforts on alternative fuels such as methane and hydrogen.

Under the guidance of Irene Lavagnini, R&D Manager, Navalprogetti has participated in numerous EU- and regionally-funded research projects, expanding its work from traditional engineering—like structural calculations and hydrodynamics—to cutting-edge developments in green propulsion technologies.

One of its flagship initiatives is the sHYpS project, co-funded by the Horizon Europe programme. This project involves designing and developing a liquid hydrogen propulsion system for cruise ships, though the technology is scalable to other large vessels. The solution is hybrid: conventional propulsion is retained, but hydrogen is used for certain legs of the journey, emitting only water vapor. Notably, SWAP tank systems will be employed—once a tank is empty, it is swapped out like a battery, eliminating the need for onboard bunkering.

The system is being developed by a consortium that includes technical and certification partners, such as Lloyd’s Register, ensuring each component is approved and compliant. Prototype testing is expected to begin this year.

Navalprogetti is also involved in a second project, funded by Interreg Italy-Croatia, aimed at decarbonizing Adriatic routes by designing a system using gaseous hydrogen for ferry routes between Italy and Croatia. The project runs until July 2026 and will evaluate feasibility, power needs, autonomy, and economic viability.

Despite its commitment to green innovation, Navalprogetti continues to provide conventional naval engineering services while gradually expanding its expertise into hydrogen, ethanol, ammonia, and carbon capture technologies. The company aims to become a key player in the energy transition of the maritime sector.

Read the Italian article here.