In a significant stride towards reducing the shipping industry’s carbon footprint, research led by Natasha Febiana from the Department of Chemistry Education at Raja Ali Haji Maritime University has spotlighted the potential of fuel cells in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Published in the ‘BIO Web of Conferences’, this study delves into various fuel cell technologies that could be harnessed across a range of vessels, marking a pivotal moment for maritime sustainability.
The shipping sector is a notorious contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately 2.89% of global greenhouse gas emissions and releasing around 919 million tonnes of CO2 annually. This research underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle these figures. By employing a System Literature Review (SLR) methodology, Febiana and her team sifted through a wealth of publications from 2019 to 2024 to identify two primary types of fuel cells: Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC).
What’s particularly exciting is that these fuel cells boast impressive efficiency rates and can be integrated with other technologies like Gas Turbines (GT), Organic Rankine Cycles (ORC), Steam Rankine Cycles (SRC), and Internal Combustion Engines (ICE). This integration opens up a treasure trove of opportunities for shipbuilders and operators looking to modernize their fleets while adhering to stricter environmental regulations.
Febiana notes, “Fuel cells have high potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions due to marine transport.” This statement encapsulates the essence of the research, highlighting that the transition to fuel cell technology isn’t just a theoretical exercise; it’s a pragmatic pathway to cleaner maritime operations.
The commercial implications of this research are profound. With major shipping companies increasingly under pressure to reduce their environmental impact, the adoption of fuel cells could represent a competitive advantage. Companies involved in the development of these technologies, including KC, WHB, MCFC, PAFC, DEC, and LT, stand to benefit significantly from the rising demand for sustainable shipping solutions.
As the maritime industry grapples with the pressing issue of climate change, the findings from Febiana’s research offer a glimmer of hope. By embracing fuel cell technology, the sector can move towards a greener future, aligning economic viability with environmental responsibility. The study not only sheds light on the technological advancements available but also serves as a call to action for maritime professionals to invest in and adopt these innovative solutions.
