Hybrid/dual fuel propulsion systems towards decarbonization: Case study container ship

Maritime transport faces a major challenge in reducing its environmental impact, and alternative fuels and nonconventional powered systems are promising options for reducing ship emissions. The aim of this study is to identify the most effective and cost-efficient propulsion system as a step towards green containerized shipping. A comparison between two mechanical propulsion systems operated by heavy fuel oil and dual fuels, as well as a hybrid system, is conducted, with a container ship of class A19 investigated as a case study. The environmental results reveal that the hybrid propulsion system is the best option, with the lowest CO2 emission rate of 5.926 ton/TEU. It reduces NOx, SOx, and CO2 emissions by 52%, 63.7%, and 30.4%, respectively, compared to the conventional system. Economically, the dual fuel-powered system is currently the most cost-effective proposed system for container ships. However, the hybrid system is a more effective option for upcoming regulations, with a levelized cost of energy and cost-effectiveness of 0.07 $/kWh and 21.9 $/ton, respectively.

Automated summary

This study aims to determine the most effective and cost-efficient propulsion system for achieving green containerized shipping. A comparison of two mechanical propulsion systems and a hybrid system reveals that the hybrid system is the best option, with the lowest CO2 emission rate of 5.926 ton/TEU. It reduces NOx, SOx, and CO2 emissions by 52%, 63.7%, and 30.4% respectively, compared to the conventional system. From an economic perspective, the dual fuel-powered system is currently the most cost-effective choice, but the hybrid system is more advantageous for future regulations, with a levelized cost of energy and cost-effectiveness of 0.07 $/kWh and 21.9 $/ton, respectively.