Boating: successfully completes the world’s first hydrogen refueling on a lake

Milan, September 9, 2024 – NatPower H, the pioneering developer of cutting-edge green hydrogen infrastructure for there creational boating sector and part of the NatPower Group, announces its collaboration with GEKO- INOCEL and Tullio Abbate to advance the transition towards a more sustainable, low-environmental impact boating industry, while delivering high-speed performance.
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 INOCEL, a leader in the development and production of high-power modular fuel cells for fuel cell generators and powertrain systems in  heavy-duty vehicles. In addition, the historic Italian brand Tullio Abbate, renowned for its legacy in motor boat 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 meaning ful 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.”