The launch of DRIFT's first ship is planned for 2027, with series production scheduled to follow. DRIFT has reported that it currently has an order book containing more than 30 vessels

An Approval in Principle (AiP) has been granted to DRIFT Energy by RINA for its innovative ship design that harvests energy, representing a major milestone in the development of vessels capable of producing green hydrogen at sea. The AiP was presented at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, and it is the first to be awarded for an energy-harvesting vessel. Through RINA’s risk-based AiP framework, DRIFT’s design has been assessed and confirmed to meet safety levels equivalent to those in the established marine industry, while enabling clean energy generation at sea.

Design of DRIFT's vessels 

DRIFT's vessels are designed to harness deep ocean wind and convert that energy onboard into green hydrogen. Hydro-kinetic turbines located beneath the hull generate electricity, which is then converted through electrolysis. The hydrogen is stored on board for delivery to ports and other demand centres. The ships use DRIFT's AI-enabled routing technology, GOLDILOCKS, to identify and follow suitable weather patterns. This supports higher renewable energy generation at sea.

A pivotal role in the global energy transition

Ben Medland, founder and CEO of DRIFT Energy, said: ‘Our ships are set to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition, and I am delighted that DRIFT is defining the framework against which such innovative vessels will be evaluated in future. The AiP validates the vessel's feasibility from a class perspective and is a key step towards full plan approval, with DRIFT planning to launch its first ship during 2027, with series production expected to follow. A current order book containing more than 30 vessels is reported by the company

Related: RINA has approved SRC's Methanol Superstorage system.

RINA’s dedication to promoting the safe and reliable development 

The Principal Engineer and North Europe Special Projects Business Development Manager at RINA, Patrizio Di Francesco, made the following statement: 'This Approval in Principle highlights RINA’s dedication to promoting the safe and reliable development of novel vessel designs that facilitate the energy transition by utilising green hydrogen as an energy source.'

DRIFT's mission is to assist coastal and island communities, along with other sectors grappling with issues related to grid limitations or restricted access to renewable energy.

About: DRIFT Energy 

DRIFT Energy is an innovative startup pioneering mobile renewable energy in the clean tech industry. Rather than relying on static structures such as land-based wind farms or fixed offshore platforms, this concept uses autonomous, AI-routed sailing vessels.

About: RINA

RINA most commonly refers to RINA S.p.A., a multinational certification, engineering and consulting corporation based in Genoa, Italy. With roots dating back to 1861, it is one of the world's oldest and most prominent ship classification societies.

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