Decarbonizing the high seas

Bunkering

The maritime industry faces significant challenges in adapting bunkering operations for alternative fuels like methanol and ammonia. Lynn Loo highlights the low volumetric energy density of these fuels, requiring ships to either carry more fuel or bunker more frequently, disrupting current centralized bunkering patterns 1. This shift could lead to the emergence of new ports and a more distributed bunkering network. Shayle Kann compares this to the electric vehicle infrastructure challenge, where the choice between larger batteries or more frequent charging mirrors the maritime dilemma 2.

The conversation of energy and fuel production is intimately linked with transport via maritime, and that interface needs to be carefully looked at.

--- Lynn Loo

The industry must consider the balance between cargo capacity and bunkering frequency to optimize operations.

   

Efficiency

Energy efficiency is crucial for reducing emissions in maritime shipping, yet current efforts are insufficient. Lynn Loo notes that despite a 30% reduction in emissions since 2008 through improved efficiency, increased trade volumes have negated these gains 3. Advanced solutions like wind propulsion and air lubrication are needed but are not being adopted quickly enough. The Catalyst episode emphasizes the importance of regulation and infrastructure development to support these technologies 4.

We need to move forward on all these fronts as quickly as possible.

--- Lynn Loo

The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation is piloting financing schemes to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.

   

Carbon Capture

Onboard carbon capture presents a temporary solution for reducing emissions, though it comes with significant challenges. Lynn Loo explains that the technology is costly and lacks economies of scale, as each vessel essentially becomes a small chemical factory 5. The captured CO2 must be stored and offloaded, yet there are no current guidelines for this process. Despite these hurdles, carbon capture remains a critical interim measure as the industry transitions to zero-carbon fuels 4.

We need to do what we can with what we have now.

--- Lynn Loo

The development of CO2 hubs and shared infrastructure could facilitate the integration of onboard carbon capture with land-based systems.