- The REMARCCABLE project evaluated carbon capture technology on the Stena Impero.
- The carbon capture system reduced emissions at the cost of a 9.2% increase in fuel consumption.
- New builds could improve the carbon capture rate and reduce fuel penalties.
The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI), in collaboration with Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) and Stena Bulk, undertook the REMARCCABLE project to evaluate the feasibility of installing carbon capture systems (OCCS) on ships with minimal operational disruption. The study specifically tested the system on the Stena Impero, a medium-range tanker, reports SAFETY4SEA.
Emission Reduction Potential for Shipping
The results showed that retrofitting a carbon capture system could reduce the Stena Impero’s CO2 emissions by up to 20% annually, while the fuel consumption penalty was nearly 10%. This demonstrates a significant step towards decarbonizing the shipping industry.
Positive Results from Carbon Capture Technology
Dr. Michael Traver, Head of OGCI’s Transport Workstream, said, “This study is a major milestone in understanding the potential of using carbon capture technology to decarbonize the shipping industry. The technical feasibility demonstrated in the project is highly encouraging.”
Key Features of The Project
CO2 Emission Reduction with OCCS
The project reported that retrofitting the OCCS could achieve a 19.7% net reduction in CO2 emissions. This was accompanied by a 9.2% fuel penalty, balancing efficiency and environmental impact.
Efficient Energy Utilization Critical
They recommended a more efficient boiler system, as it could provide 34.5% of the thermal energy required for the carbon capture process. It lowered the fuel penalty to 9.2%.
CO2 Storage for Long Voyages
The system is designed to store liquefied CO2 at medium pressure (15-20 bara). It was for voyages lasting up to 12 days, with a tank capacity of 380 m³.
Space-Optimized Module Design
The study found that the OCCS components can be assembled into a mega-skid module. It optimized space for easier installation on vessels like the Stena Impero.
Safety Considerations Highlighted
The project identified potential risks through HAZID and HAZOP safety analyses. It included the danger of CO2 asphyxiation and amine solvent degradation from impurities in the system.
Compliance with CII Regulations
Retrofitting the OCCS can extend the vessel’s CII compliance by 9 years. It ensured that it maintained at least a “C” rating under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards until the end of its operational life.
Cost Estimate and Future Feasibility
The total cost for retrofitting the OCCS system on the Stena Impero is estimated at $13.6 million, with equipment costs making up two-thirds of the budget. Research indicates that ongoing development could lower these costs.
New Builds Could Achieve Greater Efficiency
A feasibility study for new MR tankers suggests improved CO2 capture rates of 23.9% and a reduced fuel penalty of 10.2%, showing potential for further optimization in future vessels.
“This study provides quantitative insights on managing the trade-offs between the actual cost of operating OCCS and its emissions reduction potential. For OCCS systems to be practical, the industry needs to manage captured CO2 effectively, ” commented Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of GCMD.
Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk, said, “This may be expensive for first movers, but the consortium believes that further research and development will drive down costs, making OCCS an increasingly viable solution for the shipping industry.”
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
