Ireland launches alternative fuels drive

Funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, the ‘ShipFuel’ research project is a collaboration between MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate and Marine and renewable energy consultants Gavin & Doherty Geosolutions (GDG).

“Given that 90% of all Ireland’s traded goods are transported by sea, the implications for fuel consumption are immense,” said Professor Jerry D Murphy, director of the MaREI centre.

“Our research aims to deliver a definitive roadmap, leading stakeholders toward a low-carbon, sustainable marine value chain, crucial for our economy and the planet.”

The project aims to explore viable alternative fuels such as hydrogen, compressed biomethane, methanol and renewable diesel along with the supporting infrastructure needed at Irish ports.

The project will also look into vessel technologies, including retrofitting existing fleets.

Jonathan Bull, GDG managing director, said the project represented positive progress for the maritime sector which had been excluded from the Paris Climate Agreement. “The maritime sector has historically navigated through politically turbulent waters regarding CO2 emissions reduction,” he said.

“Sustainable maritime infrastructure aligns with economic growth and environmental stewardship and paves the way for the industry’s evolution to meet global climate targets.”