The maritime industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, with decarbonisation becoming an urgent priority. The recent alliance between the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) and Hanwha Ocean signifies a bold step forward in this mission. This five-year partnership is not just another corporate handshake; it’s a strategic collaboration aimed at tackling one of the biggest challenges our oceans face: carbon emissions.
At the heart of this collaboration lies a focus on alternative low- and zero-carbon fuels, energy efficiency technologies, and onboard carbon capture solutions. Hanwha Ocean, a key player in this venture, is leveraging its extensive expertise in green energy, including hydrogen, wind power, and ammonia. The company’s commitment is palpable, especially with its ongoing development of ammonia-powered vessels, an initiative that pairs them with Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Power Systems. This is not just about keeping pace; it’s about leading the charge.
One of the standout achievements of Hanwha Ocean is its successful ammonia transfer operations, which set the groundwork for ammonia bunkering across multiple ports. This is a game-changer, as it opens the door for widespread adoption of ammonia as a fuel source. The implications are vast; ammonia has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of maritime operations. However, this partnership doesn’t stop at fuel alternatives. The focus on onboard carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies is equally crucial.
Hanwha Ocean’s recent approval in principle from both the Korean Register and the Marshall Islands Registry for its CCS technology for LNG carriers underscores their commitment to innovation. Young Chang (James) Shon, Hanwha’s CTO, encapsulated the urgency of this moment, stating, “The time for action is now, and we are fully committed to driving meaningful change.” This sentiment resonates throughout the industry as stakeholders grapple with the pressing need for greener solutions.
The feasibility report from GCMD on onboard CCS retrofitting reveals that this technology could potentially reduce CO2 emissions by up to 20%, albeit with a 10% fuel penalty. While this presents a viable path forward, it’s not without its hurdles. Challenges related to port readiness, infrastructure, and regulatory clarity must be tackled head-on. The success of this partnership hinges on overcoming these obstacles, ensuring that the shipping industry can align with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets.
The synergy between GCMD and Hanwha Ocean is set to lower barriers for decarbonisation through pilot projects and trials that will test the waters of green shipping technologies. Moreover, the recent cooperation agreement between the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Hanwha Ocean further cements their commitment to exploring offshore technologies and sustainability efforts.
As this partnership unfolds, it could very well reshape the landscape of maritime decarbonisation. The outcomes may not only influence regulatory frameworks but could also inspire further investments in green technologies across the shipping sector. With the stakes higher than ever, the maritime world is watching closely. The actions taken today will echo through the industry for years to come, and it’s clear that GCMD and Hanwha Ocean are poised to lead the charge toward a carbon-free future.
