The Future of Maritime Fuel: Embracing Hydrogen as a Critical Fuel Stock
Key Ideas
  • Hydrogen is seen as a critical fuel stock for synthetic forms of methanol, methane, and green ammonia in the maritime industry, playing a key role in large-scale production of alternative fuels.
  • MSC Cruises, while acknowledging the challenges of using hydrogen as a primary fuel source due to density issues, is actively involved in development projects involving fuel cells and hydrogen storage technologies.
  • The industry is exploring converting LNG to hydrogen on board, with a strategic partnership with Shell focusing on decarbonization efforts for both cruise and cargo ships.
  • Bud Darr emphasizes the need for a global regulatory framework and a universal fuel standard to accelerate the transition to sustainable maritime fuels, highlighting the importance of industry-government collaboration.
Bud Darr, the executive vice president of maritime policy and government affairs at MSC Group, shared insights on the evolving role of hydrogen in the maritime industry. While hydrogen is not directly used as a primary marine fuel due to technical challenges, it is regarded as a crucial fuel stock for producing synthetic methanol, methane, and green ammonia. The article discusses MSC Cruises' involvement in various projects related to fuel cells and hydrogen storage, exploring different technologies for hydrogen production and storage. Additionally, the industry is looking into converting LNG to hydrogen on ships, although addressing resulting carbon emissions remains a challenge. Darr emphasizes the significant gap between the current availability of green hydrogen and the future demand in maritime and societal sectors. He underlines the necessity of a global regulatory framework and fuel standard to facilitate the transition to sustainable fuels, advocating for industry-government collaboration. Darr also touches on the industry's efforts towards achieving the 2050 net-zero target, expressing optimism but emphasizing the crucial role of energy providers in producing required molecules. Furthermore, Darr stresses the importance of remaining optimistic, embracing creativity, and staying open-minded in navigating the industry's transition. He warns against fixating on current solutions, highlighting the need for adaptation as new developments arise. Bud Darr's extensive background in maritime policy and his leadership roles in various maritime organizations add credibility to his vision for a sustainable future in the maritime sector.
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