In this context, Hamburg, Germany presented a world innovation on February 24th, 2006: the city is planning the first zero-emission excursion boat. As a founder member of the State Initiative for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technology in Hamburg, Linde AG, Linde Gas Division was actively involved in various hydrogen projects from the start. 

As one of the partners, Linde worked with the Urban Development and Environmental Authority on the development of the "ZEMSHIPS" (Zero Emission Ships) project. 

The idea of converting a conventional ship on the River Alster to fuel cell drive first came about at the beginning of 2005. 

In the summer of the same year, Linde submitted the project application for the hydrogen supply. 

The plan now is to set up a 17,000 liter tank near the Alster to store the liquid hydrogen, so that the steamer can be filled up with fuel regularly. Linde will deliver the liquid hydrogen by trailer. The hydrogen is firstly compressed via an ionic compressor, then evaporated before reaching the ship as a pressurized gas at 350 bar. The filling procedure will probably take 30 minutes for 50 kg (1 kg corresponds to about 14 liters at 1.013 bar and 15°C). 
 

The future of this fascinating energy carrier has already begun, and the hydrogen-powered Alster steamer marks a further milestone along this road.