Exploring the potential of ammonia and hydrogen as marine fuels for the shipping industry, including their energy density, supply chain, and emission-free production. Discussing the challenges and potentials for large vessels, such as flammability and safety concerns. Highlighting the initiatives and successes in transitioning to these fuels, focusing on cost competitiveness and renewable power sources driving adoption.
Hydrogen offers zero carbon emissions in shipping, aiding in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the industry.
Ammonia's higher energy density and existing supply chain make it a promising marine fuel for international ships.
Deep dives
Advantages of Hydrogen as a Marine Fuel
Hydrogen has the potential to decarbonize the shipping industry by offering clean burning with water as the byproduct. If produced using renewable energy, hydrogen can result in zero carbon emissions for both production and consumption. The high carbon footprint of the shipping industry, accounting for a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions, can be significantly reduced by adopting hydrogen as a marine fuel, aiding in mitigating air pollution and lowering the industry's carbon footprint.
Role of Ammonia in Shipping Industry
Ammonia emerges as a promising hydrogen-based fuel for long-haul international ships due to its higher energy density compared to liquid hydrogen, making it easier to transport and distribute. With an established supply chain from its use in fertilizer production, ammonia offers infrastructure advantage and can be burned in internal combustion engines, facilitating its adoption in the shipping industry. Despite challenges like toxicity and space occupancy, ammonia production using renewable energy can lead to zero emissions, positioning it as a versatile and technically feasible marine fuel.
Challenges and Costs of Transition to Hydrogen and Ammonia
Utilizing pure hydrogen for large vessels faces obstacles such as flammability, storage space requirements, and high costs associated with liquefaction. In contrast, ammonia presents challenges related to safety due to its toxicity for humans and aquatic life, requiring careful handling and consideration in vessel designs. The cost aspect of renewable hydrogen and ammonia remains a significant barrier, with more availability of renewable power and technological advancements expected to lower costs in the future, despite current high expenses hindering widespread adoption.
Ahead of London International Shipping Week 2021, a six-part S&P Global Platts podcast miniseries looks into the pricing of alternative marine fuels for the global shipping industry. In each episode of Marine Fuels of the Future, Platts editors investigate the current state of the major fuel alternatives, as the shipping sector seeks to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions ahead of stringent caps in 2030 and 2050. In episode five, Platts energy transition reporters look at the practical and economic complexities of using ammonia or hydrogen to power the fleet.
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