The use of fuel cells for marine applications constitutes a new market. Existing fuel cells (FC) for ships are only available on a prototype status and at low power. However, major ship manufacturers worldwide have announced commercialisation of fuel-cell ships in the next decade and most of them are working on this. These commitments have initialised a significant process of research and development on fuel-cell-driven boats and their components such as the fuel-cell stack itself and the necessary auxiliaries such as compressors, reformers, etc.

The market share of vessels hosting alternative auxiliary power units (APUs) for the year 2008 is estimated to be about 3%, rising to 10% in 2015-2020; most market forecasts envisage a growth in the use of alternative drive systems. The development of an APU may pave the way for the introduction of fuel cells for propulsion.

Since fuel cells can provide electrical energy with much higher efficiency than the generator in ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, APUs that convert diesel to electrical energy in order to cope with the ever increasing electric power demand in modern ships are an attractive option. APUs can be an early application, where the vehicle manufacturer and supplier industry can build up competence, experience and manufacturing capability, before later taking the next step where fuel cells are used as a prime power unit.