Why use alternative fuels for ships?
The shipping industry is under increasing pressure to act on the Paris Agreement and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The substantial emission reductions which must be achieved over the next decades are expected to drive technology development and, in particular, the introduction of low-carbon fuels. Furthermore, authorities are increasingly paying attention to the consequences of hazardous NOX, SOX and particle emissions at the local level.
Among all fuel alternatives under discussion, DNV GL has identified LNG, LPG, methanol, biofuel, hydrogen and other power-to-fuel (PtF) solutions as the most promising alternative fuels for shipping (see a comparison on web page “Fuels and technologies” > “Hydrogen and PtF”).
DNV GL believes battery systems, fuel cell systems and wind-assisted propulsion have reasonable potential for ship applications.
White paper on alternative fuels and technologies
All alternative fuel options are accompanied by benefits and challenges. DNV GL has composed a white paper which provides an introduction to alternative fuels and technology solutions. The objective of this paper is to provide decision support for investments in ships over the coming five to ten-year period. The paper focuses on technical parameters and limitations. The content can also be found on the new DNV GL web platform Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI).