According to an article published in Shipping Technology, a Q&A on the research project of Alfa Laval’s use of fuel cell technology to decrease shipping emissions, has been conducted by Ilaria Grasso Macola (IGM).
The Research Project
Swedish technology provider Alfa Laval has launched a research project that aims to accelerate the development of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology, using it to produce green fuel for the shipping industry, says an article published in Ship Technology.
Project Partners
Alongside partners including the Technical University of Denmark and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon, Alfa Laval will spearhead the development of the SOFC4Maritime project, which used green fuels such as ammonia, hydrogen and bio-methane to produce power on board vessels.
Use of SOFC Technology
The use of SOFC technology – which combines fuel and an oxidant via an ionic electrolyte to produce electricity – could have significant environmental benefits and help the industry to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2050 targets, which aim to reduce vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions by 50%.
According to a study by Imperial College London and others, SOFC is the most “optimal solution for reducing greenhouse gas emission using liquified natural gas”, as it could reduce ships’ CO2 emissions by 34%.
Alfa Laval President’s Comment
“Addressing shipping’s environmental challenges – and climate change in particular – will require a diverse range of strong technologies,” commented Alfa Laval marine division president Sameer Kalra. “By partnering with fellow marine industry experts, we can investigate the possibilities and bring them to fruition in time to make a difference.”
Vice-president, Lars Skytte Jørgensen’s Explanations
Alfa Laval has an ongoing dialogue with many of the major players in the marine industry, [but] the specific partner discussions that led to SOFC4Maritime began last year.
The need to reduce carbon footprint is widely recognised, both inside and outside the marine industry. This technology will not be the only solution, of course, but it will be one key element in reducing the marine industry’s climate impact.
The urgency is underlined by legislation and other initiatives driving the marine industry in this direction, such as the IMO’s clear targets for 2030 and 2050, and the Energy Efficiency Design Index ambition level, [which] will increase from 2025.
