Colombo, – 28 Nov 2023, at the Hydrogen Symposium in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Greenstat, in collaboration with the National Scientist Federation and esteemed universities, celebrated the inauguration of the Sri Lanka Center of Excellence in Hydrogen (COE-H). This groundbreaking initiative aims to propel Sri Lanka into a future driven by sustainable energy solutions.
The COE-H is the result of a collaborative effort between Greenstat, the National Scientist Federation, and renowned universities in Sri Lanka and abroad. This venture seeks to foster knowledge exchange, share technological advancements, and facilitate experience sharing in the field of green hydrogen.
In the lead-up to the inauguration, the center organized its inaugural seminars, which received overwhelming success and enthusiasm. The community’s thirst for knowledge and passion for sustainable energy solutions became evident, reinforcing the commitment to advancing the cause.
A significant milestone achieved in this journey is the establishment of an Advisory Board comprising professionals and partner organizations from Sri Lanka and Norway, as well as academia. This board will play a pivotal role in providing guidance and direction to the COE-H, ensuring it remains at the forefront of hydrogen technology.
The COE-H’s significance lies not only in research and development but also in capacity building. Acknowledging the importance of local expertise in harnessing the potential of green hydrogen, the center will serve as a hub for learning, training, and innovation. It aims to empower the next generation of engineers and scientists, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to make a significant impact in hydrogen technology.
Emphasizing job creation as a key outcome of the initiative, the COE-H envisions not just sustainable energy but also economic growth and prosperity for the people of Sri Lanka. As investments in hydrogen technology and infrastructure increase, so will employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
In his address, Mr. Sturle Pedersen, Chairman of Greenstat Hydrogen Sri Lanka, highlighted the importance of the COE-H in the global imperative for sustainable energy solutions. He emphasized that by investing in hydrogen technology, Sri Lanka is investing in a cleaner, more sustainable future.
The inauguration of the Sri Lanka Center of Excellence in Hydrogen represents a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for the nation. The collaborative efforts of Greenstat, the National Scientist Federation, and esteemed universities have made this endeavor possible. The support and guidance of the Advisory Board and academia are deemed invaluable.
As Sri Lanka moves forward, the COE-H stands not only as a Center of Excellence but also as a legacy of knowledge, sustainability, and opportunity. It symbolizes a commitment to building a greener, more prosperous Sri Lanka for future generations.
The world’s first liquid hydrogen-powered ferry launched by the Norwegian business Norled is operational now.
The Norwegian Maritime Administration granted MF Hydra, the ferry, clearance to sail, said the company’s press release on Friday.
“After a lot of development and testing, we are now looking forward to welcoming passengers on board for a zero-emission journey between Hjelmeland and Nesvik,” said Erlend Hovland, Chief Technology Officer of Norled.
Since the beginning of the year, Norled has been testing the system, and in recent weeks, the Norwegian Maritime Authority has given its final clearances. The ferry will travel in Norway on a triangular route between Hjelmeland, Skipavik, and Nesvik.