119. Minutes: The decarbonization of the shipping industry
Feb 12, 2024
auto_awesome
This week, Michael Barnard, host of Redefining Energy - Tech, discusses the decarbonization of the shipping industry. They explore electrification options, the role of hydrogen, green ammonia, methanol, and biodiesel. Hybrid and multi-fuel solutions are favored. They also talk about the potential of batteries, alternative fuels like biofuels and ammonia, and the need for a special bunkering infrastructure for alternative fuels. The future adoption of hybrid configurations with batteries is speculated for reduced pollution and noise near ports.
Using green hydrogen to produce biofuels is more beneficial for maritime shipping and aviation than using hydrogen directly.
Advancements in battery technology and the efficiency of electric drivetrains will lead to the transition of inland shipping to electric power within 20-30 years.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Turning Green Hydrogen into Biofuels
The podcast explores how turning green hydrogen into biofuels, such as biodiesel, is more beneficial for maritime shipping and aviation than using hydrogen directly. For example, it is mentioned that a ton of ammonia fertilizer, which contains hydrogen, can enhance crop yields by 28 tons, resulting in 0.4 tons of biofuel from a ton of biomass. This highlights the significantly higher energy content in biofuels created from hydrogen compared to using hydrogen as is.
The Shift towards Electric Inland Shipping
The podcast discusses the transition of inland shipping, particularly on rivers and coastlines, to electric power. The example of battery-powered ships that have been successfully operating on the Yangtze River in China is mentioned, where container ships with containerized batteries recharge at ports along the route. It is suggested that all inland shipping, within 20-30 years, will transition to electric power due to advancements in battery technology and the efficiency of electric drivetrains. The discussion also touches on the potential for electric power in short-haul maritime routes and the use of multi-fuel ships, such as those running on biofuels like biodiesel.
This week, Gerard is out, so Laurent does the Minutes with Michael Barnard, host of our sister show Redefining Energy – Tech. On the menu this week, an overview of the decarbonisation of shipping. What will be electrified? What role for Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, Methanol and Biodiesel? And the answers are hybrid and multi-fuels.