Boating: NatPower H, together with GEKO-Inocel and Tullio Abbate, successfully completes the world’s first hydrogen refueling on a lake 

Milan, September 3, 2024 –   NatPower H has entered a strategic partnership with Geko, a specialist in the design, integration, manufacturing, and marketing of high-performance electric propulsion systems for boats. The collaboration also includes Innocel, a leader in the development and production of high-power modular fuel cells for fuel cell generators and powertrain systems in both light and heavy-duty vehicles. In addition, the historic Italian brand Tullio Abbate, renowned for its legacy in motorboat racing and offshore excellence since 1969, joins the initiative. Together, they are spearheading a revolution in sustainable recreational boating, with the world’s first hydrogen refueling of the Tullio Abbate Elite 27 H Poseidon on Lake Como—marking a pivotal moment in the transition towards eco-friendly marine propulsion.

The operation, which took place in Cernobbio with the support of the municipality, local police, and Mayor Matteo Monti, and facilitated by the technical expertise of Linde Gas, marks the world’s first hydrogen refueling on a lake. The vessel involved, the Poseidon, is a prime example of how hydrogen fuel cell technology can be seamlessly integrated into the maritime sector without compromising on performance. This cutting-edge boat, designed with Tullio Abbate’s renowned nautical expertise, is powered by an advanced propulsion system developed by GEKO and driven by an INOCEL fuel cell.

“This partnership is a crucial step forward in our journey towards more sustainable boating. It underscores how innovation and collaboration between industry leaders can drive meaningful progress in the marine industry,” said Andrea Minerdo, CEO of NatPower H. “By working together, we are not only committed to reducing the environmental impact but also to raising the bar for sustainability standards across the sector. At the same time, we are determined to maintain the high-performance levels that the industry and our customers expect.”

“We are very pleased to share this achievement with Inocel, NatPower H, and Tullio Abbate,” said Pierre Lion, CEO of Geko. “The first hydrogen refueling of a boat on Lake Como is yet another strong demonstration of the hydrogen ecosystem’s feasibility—an ecosystem that is already up and running.”

“Tullio Abbate has always been a pioneer in innovation, which is why so many engine manufacturers choose to collaborate with us,” added Tullio Abbate. “I was excited by Inocel’s request to build a boat that is both eco-friendly and capable of delivering bold performance.”

NatPower H 

NatPower H is the world’s leading developer of innovative infrastructure for the production, storage, and distribution of green hydrogen. NatPower H is part of the NatPower Group, an independent developer of infrastructure projects for clean energy generation, providing support to enterprises, utilities, and investors globally. The company boasts one of the world’s largest renewable energy project pipelines, exceeding 30 GW, accelerating the energy transition process and encompassing all major technologies: solar, wind, storage, and hydrogen. In just a few years, NatPower has established itself as one of the most prominent independent developers and operates in five countries: Italy, the UK, the US, Canada, and Kazakhstan. With four offices located 

INOCEL  

Inocel designs, manufactures and markets modular high power fuel cells for stationary, heavy duty land mobility and marine applications. Its expertise includes the development of advanced fuel cell technologies and their seamless integration into complete systems. INOCEL also offers comprehensive support, including predictive maintenance and state-of-the-art monitoring and control services to ensure optimal performance and reliability for its customers.

GEKO 

Founded in 2022, GEKO designs, integrates, manufactures, and markets electric and hydrogen propulsion systems for high-performance applications, including engines and marine solutions.

Press Contacts
NatPower

Maria Grazia Tiballi – mg.tiballi@natpower.com – Tel. +39 344 0336620
Marco Vassallo – m.vassallo@natpower.com – Tel. +39 338 7130378

NatPower Press Office – Havas PR

Carola BereHa – carola.bereHa@havaspr.com – Tel. +39 345 4532564
Yael Norsa – yael.norsa@havaspr.com – Tel. +39 3489349773

Geko – Inocel

Dominique Maizou – dominique.maizou@inocel.com