Wärtsilä has published a paper on the role of sustainable fuels in the energy sector’s decarbonization transition. Future carbon-neutral fuels, as well as the use of flexible engine power plants that can use them, will be critical to this transition.
Wärtsilä has invested heavily in the study of alternative future fuels at its dedicated fuel laboratory, where a wide range of fuels have been tested, in order to meet the growing need to decarbonize engine power plants. Fuel testing and engine compatibility assessments will be carried out under one roof for the first time as part of the company’s new world-class Smart Technology Hub.
“Wärtsilä has taken a leading position in the study of carbon-neutral fuels, made possible by our outstanding facilities, testing capabilities and expertise. This paper explains in great detail the options and likely future fuel-choice scenarios that will transform the way that energy is produced with assets such as grid balancing engines,” explains Jukka Lehtonen, Vice President, Technology & Product Management, Wärtsilä Energy.
The fuel options are divided into three groups: Power-to-X (P2X), Bio-to-X (B2X), and Waste-to-X (W2X). P2X fuels are created by electrolyzing water to produce hydrogen and its derivatives. They can only be called “green” if the energy used in the process comes from renewable sources. B2X includes biofuels and biogas, which will likely be used as a locally appropriate solution in certain parts of the world, particularly as blends. Plastic or tyre pyrolysis oils, as well as gasified municipal waste, are examples of W2X fuels. They have value for sustainability and decarbonisation because they support a circular economy.
Reetta Kaila, Director, Sustainable Fuels and Environment, Wärtsilä Energy, says: “The key outcome of our studies is that different fuels will be adopted depending upon location and availability. We feel that we must look beyond the concept of one or two fuels, be it hydrogen, ammonia or methanol, being the universal choice. We believe that multiple fuel options will be available, many of them very localized serving power plants within fairly short distances of the fuel production.”
Fuel flexibility and the ability to increase the adoption of solar and wind power will undoubtedly be important factors in the industry’s journey to 100% renewable energy systems.
