Maritime industry gets its first guidance notes for onboard hydrogen generation

February 2nd, 2026

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has published what it says is the maritime industry’s first dedicated guidance notes for onboard hydrogen generation, as a response to growing interest from shipowners, yards and technology developers in producing hydrogen onboard using alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol and ammonia.

Illustration only. Source: Lloyd’s Register

Although it allows shipowners to 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, producing hydrogen directly on board 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 for fuel cells and low-flashpoint fuels, the guidance notes provide a clear, risk-based framework that reduces uncertainty, supports plan approval and accelerates project delivery for newbuilds and retrofits, Lloyd’s Register said.

In the guidance notes, the practical requirements for the design, safety, onboard installation and integration of hydrogen generators are set out, recognizing the challenges of adapting land-based technologies for the marine environment.

This is expected to reduce technical and regulatory uncertainty for projects currently under development for shipowners, yards and technology providers, helping shorten approval timelines and de-risk investment decisions in hydrogen-based solutions.

“Clear guidance is essential for emerging technologies. The industry cannot afford to stand still while formal regulations are developed; our Guidance Notes provide the clarity needed to move projects from concept to delivery,” said Thomas Bayer, Lead Specialist Fuel Cell Technology, Technical Directorate, Lloyd’s Register.

“By publishing dedicated guidance ahead of formal international standards, LR reinforces its position as a trusted advisor on emerging technologies and a leader in supporting the maritime industry’s transition to low- and zero-carbon energy.”