The project is developing Finland’s first hydrogen-powered sauna boat utilizing swappable hydrogen cartridges as its energy source. The solution aims to enable the use of hydrogen without harbor-based hydrogen refueling infrastructure while making hydrogen visible as part of everyday experiences.
Central Finland Mobility Foundation (Cefmof) has launched the Hydrogen Sauna Boat project to develop and test the use of hydrogen in a recreational watercraft environment and to raise awareness of hydrogen’s potential as part of future energy systems.
Hydrogen for mobility and everyday experiences
The Hydrogen Sauna Boat serves as a practical pilot platform where hydrogen applications in waterborne transportation can be tested under real operating conditions. Hydrogen is utilized in two ways: it is converted into electricity by a fuel cell to power the boat and onboard equipment, and it is used as a direct energy source for sauna heating and grilling.
The boat’s energy system consists of swappable hydrogen cartridges, a fuel cell system, a battery system, and electric propulsion. The project will also test the use of hydrogen for sauna heating and grilling. The Hydrogen Sauna Boat provides a concrete opportunity to explore how hydrogen can be utilized in a variety of everyday and recreational applications.
At the same time, the project provides hands-on experience of how hydrogen can be integrated into everyday life and leisure activities while supporting the development of the regional hydrogen ecosystem in Central Finland.
“The goal of the project is to gain practical experience in utilizing hydrogen in waterborne transportation and to demonstrate that hydrogen can also be used in locations where conventional refueling infrastructure is not available. At the same time, we are exploring new applications for hydrogen and supporting the development of the hydrogen economy in Finland,” says Shun Kanazawa, Program Assistant Manager, Innovation & R&D Acceleration at Cefmof.
Gaining experience for future hydrogen solutions
The Hydrogen Sauna Boat provides Cefmof and its project partners with an opportunity to develop, test, and evaluate new hydrogen solutions in a real operating environment. The project also contributes to building expertise related to hydrogen use and identifying new application areas.
Another objective is to increase understanding of how hydrogen can be utilized in environments where fixed hydrogen infrastructure is not available. Practical experience gained through the project can help identify new opportunities for hydrogen applications and support the growth of the hydrogen economy in Finland.
Safety plays a key role
Special attention is being paid to the safe use of hydrogen throughout the project. The Hydrogen Sauna Boat’s energy system is designed to minimize potential risks through multiple technical safety measures.
Hydrogen use is automatically monitored through hydrogen detection systems and integrated safety functions. Any abnormal conditions are detected in real time, enabling the system to automatically shut off the hydrogen supply when necessary. In addition, structural design solutions and effective ventilation ensure that hydrogen cannot accumulate in enclosed spaces. All hydrogen equipment is designed and installed in accordance with relevant safety principles and risk assessments, with the involvement of qualified hydrogen experts.
The project progresses during the summer
The Hydrogen Sauna Boat is currently under construction, and the first on-water tests are scheduled to take place in July. The vessel will become visible in Jyväskylä Harbour as part of the project’s testing and commissioning phase.
Cefmof will provide further information on project partners, technical solutions, and upcoming events as the project progresses.
