Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is currently one of the most popular alternative fuels in the maritime industry. LNG burns cleaner than conventional marine fuels, such as heavy fuel oil, reducing sulfur oxide emissions by 99%, particulate matter by 99%, and nitrogen oxides by 85%. Moreover, it can cut carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 20-25% compared to traditional marine fuels. However, LNG is not nearly as environmentally friendly as the other zero-emission fuel options that are gaining traction.
Hydrogen fuel, particularly green hydrogen, presents a zero-emission solution when used in fuel cells or combustion engines. Its high energy-to-weight ratio makes it especially suitable for marine operations. Nonetheless, the adoption of hydrogen as a marine fuel faces challenges such as storage and transportation, given its low energy density per volume.
Ammonia is another zero-carbon fuel option gaining traction. It can be produced from hydrogen using renewable energy, and it has a higher energy density than hydrogen, making it easier to transport and store. Ammonia can be used in internal combustion engines or fuel cells. And there are currently several ammonia-solutions being built and tested by forward thinking marine technology companies around the world.
Methanol, like ammonia, can be produced from hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide, offering a carbon-neutral fuel alternative when produced sustainably. It is less energy-dense than conventional fuels but can be handled and stored using infrastructure similar to that used for conventional marine fuels. Methanol’s lower risk compared to gases like hydrogen and ammonia makes it an attractive option for many operators.
Biofuels, derived from biological materials such as plant matter or cooking oil, can also serve as a direct substitute for traditional marine fuels. They can significantly reduce carbon emissions, depending on the feedstock and production method. The scalability of biofuels without competing with food production or leading to deforestation is important to their sustainability.
SEAM already has developed several zero-emission solutions for vessels. Such as fully electric and hydrogen solutions. In addition to that, they are working with Amogy Inc. on a retrofit project on a 1975 tugboat. The tugboat will be retrofitted with ammonia-to-power technology. Read a project update here.
The maritime industry's transition to sustainable energy sources is complex and multifaceted. While no single fuel option will suit all needs, a combination of the above technologies could pave the way to a greener future. Investment in infrastructure, innovation in technology, and supportive regulations will be crucial to enable this transition. As the industry moves forward, the focus will not only be on adopting these new fuels but also on improving energy efficiency and reducing overall fuel consumption in maritime operations.
