Much of the industry’s emissions-reduction attention is focused on sustainable oceangoing ships, but the sector must also cut pollution in ports from harbour craft.
Regulators in North America, Europe and Singapore in particular have focused on the impact shipping pollution has on local populations and have introduced legislation to cut NOx, SOx, carbon monoxide and particulate matter emissions.
CARB
The California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) new compliance requirements for the at-berth regulation came into effect this year, while the EU Fit for 55 was, according to the European Tugboat Association, one of the “most important challenges” it faces.
Despite these regulations, the vast majority of vessels in port use auxiliary engines burning gasoline or diesel to generate power at berth.
According to e1 Marine managing director Robert Schluter, this shows there are barriers to the adoption of alternative power and fuels in port for these vessels.
“For shipping’s decarbonisation battle, a concentrated focus on the first and last mile can offer a positive example to the rest of the industry,” he said.
Upfront cost
The lack of affordable capital to invest in modernising facilities is another contributor. According to analysis from Bank of America and universities in California, one of the biggest challenges associated with port electrification is the high upfront costs and lack of funding to support the installation of grid and charging infrastructure.
“It is apparent that electrifying tugs, workboats and other harbour craft, which are ideally suited for battery power due to their operating profiles, is being hampered due to the lack of charging infrastructure and grid support,” said Mr Schluter.
Reducing carbon footprints
Owners of tugs and other harbour vessels are working to reduce their carbon footprints and are looking at options such as shore power, onboard batteries and alternative fuels when they are available.
But the vast majority of newbuild tugs continue to feature diesel engines which emit local air pollutants and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These harmful emissions are increasingly coming under the gaze of regulators.
A new port power solution
Mr Schluter said dedicated power supply solutions do not need to be hampered by the lack of grid support and network infrastructure. e1 Marine’s containerised methanol to-hydrogen generator offers an alternative solution that does not require an infrastructural overhaul and competition with competing off-takers.
Therefore, the successful development and implementation of cleaner shoreside power “is ultimately dependent on collaboration and new working methods between all stakeholders, yet there is a solution that can cut through the complexities of grid reliance,” said Mr Schluter.
The 27th International Tug & Salvage Convention, Exhibition & Awards will be held in association with Caterpillar in Dubai, UAE, 21-23 May 2024. Use this link for more details of this industry event and the associated social and networking opportunities; and this link to book your ticket for the exhibition, social gatherings and awards night.
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Source : Riviera
