The shipping industry, responsible for transporting over 90% of global trade, contributes approximately 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions and significant air pollution.
With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) targeting a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, the sector faces mounting pressure to transition from traditional fuels like heavy fuel oil (HFO) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to sustainable alternatives. A fully self-sustaining green hydrogen system, powered by seawater electrolysis, has emerged as a viable solution to address both environmental and economic challenges.
Fuel costs for large container ships range from 80,000 to 180,000 per day, depending on the type of fuel used. Beyond these expenses, traditional propulsion systems require extensive infrastructure, including bunkering and storage facilities, which add significant logistical and operational costs. These systems also contribute to CO₂, SOₓ, NOₓ, and particulate matter emissions, exacerbating the industry’s environmental impact.
The IMO’s stringent regulations have intensified the need for innovative solutions. Operators must now balance rising fuel costs with the imperative to reduce emissions, creating a dual challenge that demands transformative approaches.
A Self-Sustaining Green Hydrogen System
The proposed green hydrogen system leverages seawater electrolysis to produce hydrogen directly onboard vessels. This process eliminates the need for external power input, as the system generates its own energy. Hydrogen is produced on-demand, feeding directly into fuel cells to power propulsion systems and onboard electrical loads. This approach not only removes the need for large-scale hydrogen storage but also ensures efficient and safe energy management.
The system begins with seawater conditioning and electrolysis, splitting seawater into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen powers fuel cells, which generate electricity for propulsion and auxiliary systems. Any surplus energy can be stored for later use, with water as the only byproduct—safely discharged or recycled onboard.
The self-sustaining hydrogen system offers significant operational advantages. By producing hydrogen on-demand, it eliminates the need for high-pressure storage tanks, reducing risks such as leaks or explosions. Advanced monitoring systems ensure smooth electrolysis and fuel cell operations, with fail-safe mechanisms in place to manage anomalies.
From an economic perspective, the system presents a compelling case. While the initial installation cost is approximately 2,000 per kW— totaling 160 million for an 80,000 kW container ship—the long-term savings are substantial. Over a vessel’s 25- to 30-year lifespan, traditional LNG-powered ships can incur fuel costs between 725 million and 1.625 billion. The hydrogen system eliminates these expenses entirely, with reduced maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts in hydrogen fuel cells compared to conventional engines.
Environmental Impact
The environmental benefits of the green hydrogen system are profound. By eliminating CO₂, SOₓ, NOₓ, and particulate matter emissions, the system aligns with the IMO’s decarbonization goals. It also provides energy independence, freeing operators from reliance on external fuel supplies and complex bunkering infrastructure.
For example, a large container ship requiring 80,000 kW of power can produce nearly 5,000 kg of hydrogen per hour, meeting all energy demands. Over a year, such a ship would avoid emitting 200,000 to 300,000 metric tons of CO₂ compared to traditional fuels.
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