A newly published report titled “Opportunities for the UK to Kick-Start Shipping’s Transition to Zero Emission Fuel,” produced by UMAS and Arup, provides a detailed roadmap for the UK to emerge as a leader in maritime decarbonisation. This document outlines the actionable steps necessary for the UK to become an early adopter of zero-emission fuels in the shipping industry.
The urgency of decarbonising shipping is highlighted by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) strategy. This strategy aims for zero or near-zero GHG emission energy sources to make up 5% to 10% of international shipping energy use by 2030. Achieving this goal will require significant scaling up of renewable energy and green ammonia production facilities in the UK.
The report emphasises the need for the UK to develop production facilities and supply chain infrastructure to support zero-emission fuels. However, there are challenges related to demand, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, which have resulted in a lack of confidence from stakeholders and inhibited investment.
Sally Prickett, Director at Arup, expressed optimism about the UK’s potential to lead in the global green fuel value chain. She highlighted the collaboration between Arup and UMAS in addressing technical, commercial, and regulatory challenges, providing a clear pathway for transformative change in zero-emission shipping.
The research delves into the decarbonisation potential of six large ferries operating from ports in the Northeast of England and seven container vessels from ports in the Solent. The findings suggest that decarbonising these routes could align them with the most ambitious international decarbonisation targets.
Utilising UMAS’s first mover route identification tool, ‘FUSE’, and Arup’s expertise in zero-emission fuel production, the report showcases the UK’s capability to establish itself as an early adopter in this space. It highlights the necessity for last-mile infrastructure to support future fuels.
Understanding current shipping energy demand is crucial for targeting decarbonisation efforts. UMAS provided insights into the energy makeup of fleets in the Northeast and the Solent strait, identifying the significant energy demand in these regions.
The study estimates the 2023 heavy fuel oil demand in the Northeast at approximately 513 ktonnes and in the Southampton/Portsmouth port area at around 751 ktonnes. Decarbonising 10% of this demand using methanol, ammonia, or hydrogen-derived fuels would represent a significant step towards sustainability.
Chris Thorne, Director of Strategy and Operations at UMAS, highlighted the UK’s opportunity to lead in zero-emission fuels. He noted the importance of government support for hydrogen-derived fuels and the need for deeper understanding of energy demand in specific geographic areas.
The report underscores the UK’s potential to pioneer zero-emission shipping fuels. By making targeted investments and leveraging its existing strengths, the UK can showcase itself as a global leader in maritime decarbonisation.
