Fossil-free ships: energy demand, production, storage and consumption

Research Project, 2022 – 2024

Shipping is one of the most transport- and energy-efficient modes of transport with the advantage that ships can be used globally (between continents), regionally (between countries within a continent) or locally (eg coastal shipping, inland waterways). At the same time as transports by ships are increasing, there is a demand to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and particles.

The project will develop an updated simulation and analysis tool called ShipCLEAN-FFS (FFS: fossil-free ship). The model can be used to evaluate and compare energy systems and show to which extent wind propulsion can supply a ship with sufficient power, how fuel cells, batteries and hydrogen as a fuel can complement wind propulsion.
The project will present realistic feasibility studies as showcases of realistic ship concepts, routes and operation conditions. These will present complete fossil-free energy systems which consider and balance the ship’s energy demand, production, storage and consumption.
Transport logistics, economics calculations, cost estimates and return on investment for new systems will be compared to fossil fuel-powered ships.