In a significant stride towards greening maritime transport, researchers have explored the potential of offshore floating solar panels paired with hydrogen production to fuel small ferries. This innovative approach, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Energy Conversion and Management: X’, offers a promising pathway to decarbonize shipping, a sector responsible for around 2-3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The study, led by Nisha Kaur from the Faculty of Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technology at Universiti Malaysia Pahang, focuses on a case analysis of Redang Island, Malaysia. It evaluates the technical feasibility, cost dynamics, and environmental impacts of producing hydrogen-based e-fuels for green ship refuelling using offshore floating photovoltaic (PV) systems.
So, what does this mean for the maritime industry? Well, the research indicates that a 20 MW offshore floating solar system could generate approximately 637,619 MWh of solar energy and produce about 12,892 tonnes of hydrogen over its lifetime. The estimated total cost is around MYR 175.84 million, with a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of MYR 0.276/kWh and a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of MYR 13.64/kg.
“Compared to conventional fuels, e-hydrogen exhibits greater techno-economic-environmental benefits even for short-distance cruise ships due to the higher energy density of the fuel,” Kaur explained. This is a significant finding, as it suggests that hydrogen-based e-fuels could be a viable alternative for maritime transport, even for shorter routes.
The integration of offshore floating solar with hydrogen production presents a sustainable and scalable solution for decarbonizing maritime transport. It supports national renewable energy targets and contributes to the global transition towards net-zero emissions. Moreover, this approach could open up new commercial opportunities for maritime sectors, from shipbuilding and refuelling infrastructure to maintenance and operations.
However, the study also highlights the need for international standards for maritime e-fuels, adaptation at major bunkering ports, a carbon pricing mechanism, and policy support to enable operations at coastal, offshore, and island locations. These steps are crucial for the widespread adoption of this technology.
In the words of the researchers, “The future scope includes the importance of international standards for maritime e-fuel, adaptation at major bunkering ports, a carbon pricing mechanism, and policy support to enable operation at coastal, offshore, and island locations.”
As the maritime industry grapples with the challenge of decarbonization, this study offers a glimmer of hope. It demonstrates that with the right technology, policy support, and commercial strategies, a greener future for shipping is within reach.