LNG as Marine Fuel, 2nd Life Cycle GHG Emission Study

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Mfame Editor
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  • The study reconfirmed that greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions of up to 23 % are achievable now from LNG as a marine fuel.
  • It is in comparison with current oil-based marine fuels over the entire life cycle from Well-to-Wake.
  • The 2nd Life Cycle GHG Emission Study on the Use of LNG as a Marine Fuel revisits its 2018/2019 research.

A Sphera news report says that 2nd life cycle GHG emission study has been completed concerning the use of LNG as Marine Fuel.

2nd Life Cycle GHG Emission Study

The 2nd Life Cycle GHG Emission Study on the Use of LNG as a Marine Fuel revisits its 2018/2019 research, using the latest available engine and supply chain data to bring the study fully up-to-date.

The study, commissioned by industry organizations SEA-LNG and SGMF, was conducted by Sphera according to ISO 14040/14044 standards.

It was peer-reviewed in accordance with ISO/TS 14071 by a panel of independent academic experts.

Outcome of the study

It found that, in addition to the considerable air quality benefits it delivers, LNG can “beyond question” contribute significantly to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) GHG reduction targets.

“Sphera conducted a milestone study on the GHG emissions associated with the use of LNG as a marine fuel in the Maritime Transport Sector” mentioned both Steve Esau, General Manager, SEA-LNG and Mark Bell, General Manager, SGMF.

Engine technology basis

On an engine technology basis, the Well-to-Wake GHG emissions reduction benefits are between 14% to 23% for 2-stroke slow-speed engines, and between 6% to 14% for 4-stroke medium-speed engines compared with oil-fueled engines.

The study forecasts that, by 2030, 2-stroke engines using LNG will offer GHG benefits of up to 24%, 4-stroke engines of up to 22%, and technological improvements will significantly reduce and minimize methane emissions.

Comprehensive report

The comprehensive report uses the latest primary data to assess all major types of marine engines and global sources of supply with quality data provided by original equipment manufacturers including Caterpillar MaK, Caterpillar Solar Turbines, GE, MAN Energy Solutions, Rolls Royce (MTU), Wärtsilä, and Winterthur Gas & Diesel, as well as from ExxonMobil, Shell, and Total on the supply side.

Methane emissions from the supply chains as well as methane released during the onboard combustion process (methane slip) have been included in the analysis.

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Source: Sphera