A Demonstrator-Anchored and Regulatory-Grounded Competency and Training Framework for Marine Engineers Operating Hydrogen PEM Fuel Cell Hybrid Propulsion Systems

Hydrogen is increasingly recognised as one of the leading pathways for decarbonising the maritime sector. Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) hybrid propulsion is emerging as a promising low-emission technology; however, its safe deployment depends on marine engineers being trained to interpret and manage coupled hydrogen, fuel cell, battery, and electric propulsion systems. However, a critical training gap remains. Alternative fuel guidance identifies hazards and safety barriers, but does not consistently translate hydrogen PEMFC–LFP operation into observable competence assessment evidence and implementation pathways. This paper develops a demonstrator-anchored and regulatory-grounded competency framework for marine engineers operating compressed hydrogen PEMFC-lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery–electric propulsion systems. A structured purposive narrative synthesis combined prototype vessel testing evidence with regulatory safety training, and competency framework literature. The experimental operational data, including compressed hydrogen supply, pressure regulation, PEMFC charging, battery buffering, propulsion current demand, voltage sag, state-of-charge response, monitoring tasks, alarms, and emergency isolation, were used as operational anchors rather than calibrated performance validation evidence. The analysis identified six competency domains. Compared with IGF/LNG model course training, the largest hydrogen-specific competence gaps concerned compressed hydrogen handling, PEMFC purge and shutdown logic, battery-buffered propulsion monitoring, integrated emergency shutdown, and communication during abnormal operation. These findings were translated into assessable learning outcomes, a provisional 40 h training module, instructor prerequisites, practical assessment evidence, a proposed digital twin/VR supplement, and a staged implementation roadmap. The proposed framework provides a structured pilot pathway. It translates operational testing evidence into assessable maritime education and training. It also establishes a foundation for future competency development and certification for commercial vessels.