The Daisy Leader, a massive cargo ship capable of transporting up to 7,000 vehicles, may seem like just another vessel to a casual observer. However, it stands out for using LNG (liquefied natural gas) technology, labelled “LNG powered” on its stern. This design, known as a Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), is equipped with Mitsubishi’s LNG Fuel Gas Supply System (FGSS), allowing it to run on both conventional marine fuels and alternative options like LNG. This flexibility offers operators the chance to switch fuels as needed, creating a practical route towards reducing carbon emissions in a sector under increasing environmental pressure.
Shipping, which is responsible for moving approximately 90% of the world’s goods, produces nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions—a figure that has grown by 20% over the past decade. As international regulations tighten, shipping companies are increasingly tasked with finding ways to comply while maintaining efficiency. The challenge is substantial, as most cargo ships today require significant fuel that current electric or alternative technologies cannot adequately replace. Dual-fuel engines, however, offer a viable step toward a lower-carbon future by enabling the use of cleaner fuels like LNG and even carbon-free alternatives like ammonia.
The shift towards alternative fuels is significant, with an expected 85% of new ship engines ordered by 2030 predicted to be dual-fuel capable. LNG, a leading choice for dual-fuel engines due to its availability and existing infrastructure, helps reduce carbon emissions by up to 25% and significantly cuts down nitrogen oxide, sulphur, and particulate emissions. Methanol is also gaining traction, particularly in container and RORO (roll-on/roll-off) ships. In Japan, Mitsubishi has begun building a methanol-powered RORO cargo ship with a dual-fuel engine that reduces CO₂ emissions by over 10% compared to conventional fuel. Ammonia, with its zero CO₂ emissions, is another emerging fuel option, with Mitsubishi actively developing ammonia-powered carriers alongside industry partners.
To support these innovations, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding’s FGSS system, used to supply LNG to marine engines, is designed with reliability and efficiency in mind. It includes fuel tanks, storage facilities, and a modular control system to optimise space and safety, and can be customised to the ship’s specific needs. Mitsubishi has delivered over 26 FGSS units and has recently introduced an Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS) to expand decarbonisation options in shipping infrastructure.
As the maritime industry moves towards its decarbonisation goals, dual-fuel technology offers an adaptable solution that can incorporate future green fuels. This versatility is crucial for the industry’s net zero ambitions, providing shipping companies with the flexibility to transition smoothly as new fuels become commercially viable.
Quadrise plc (LON:QED) is an energy technology provider whose solutions enable production of cheaper, cleaner, simpler and safer alternatives to fuel oil and biofuels, proven in real world applications. Quadrise technologies produce transition fuels called MSAR® and bioMSAR™, which allow clients in the shipping, utilities and industrial sectors to reduce carbon emissions whilst also saving costs.
