Energy Transition in Maritime Transport: Solutions and Costs

Abstract

Modern human settlements rely on shipping and maritime-related services to sustain key provisions of modern life. Energy transition in maritime transport is an important factor in developing sound and healthy delivery of such services. Exploratory research as well as costs are examined in the implementation of hybrid and electric propulsion engines in ships as well as their use of on-shore power. The use of renewable energy sources is considered, and the electrification of sea ports noted as a key piece to the energy transition puzzle. The chapter utilizes a number of example technologies and illustrates a schematic of a typical pure electric ship propulsion system. The capital costs function of hybrid propulsion is illustrated in relation to the change of CO2 emission reduction costs—indicating its unsuitability for long haul shipping. The methods described rear toward reducing the carbon footprint of the entire transshipment service and, thus, developing a cleaner and more energy efficient maritime transport sector.