Infineon Technologies (Korea CEO Seung-soo Lee) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering have joined hands to advance ship electrification.

Infineon announced on the 28th that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop technology for the electrification of ship engines and machinery using energy-efficient power semiconductor technology.

HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, a maritime pioneer and global leader in shipbuilding, is already focusing on developing eco-friendly, decarbonized ship technologies that use electricity and hydrogen.

Now, we will work with Infineon to develop innovative power solutions for propulsion drive technology, a key element of ship electrification.

Infineon's power semiconductors are driving the transition to clean, safe and smart mobility services in all modes of transport.

In modern marine applications, power semiconductors are key elements for precisely controlling multiple power modules, such as large-capacity propulsion drives.

Infineon officials said they will provide HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering with technical support and mentoring on semiconductor power modules and system solutions, and share information on new semiconductor trends for marine applications.

Through this partnership, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering aims to improve the reliability and performance of propulsion drive technology for marine vessels to contribute to environmental sustainability.

According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), shipping accounts for about 2.5 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, generating 1 billion tonnes of CO2 each year. The transition to electric ships is essential to reducing shipping’s environmental impact.

“We are delighted to have signed an MoU with Infineon as a springboard for innovation to lead ship electrification technology,” said Jang Gwang-pil, head of the Future Technology Research Center at HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering. “By combining the strengths of both companies, we will develop energy-efficient power solutions for environmentally friendly propulsion drives.”

“Infineon is providing the technologies needed to accelerate the transition to electrification as the future of mobility in the transportation sector,” said Peter Wawer, President of Infineon’s Green Industrial Power division. “Working closely with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, we will develop clean, safe and smart mobility solutions to drive the decarbonization of shipping and contribute to a more sustainable marine engine ecosystem.”