Proposal of Zero-Emission Tug in South Korea Using Fuel Cell/Energy Storage System: Economic and Environmental Long-Term Impacts

Abstract

This study presents the results of economic and environmental analysis for two types of zero-emission ships (ZESs) that are receiving more attention to meet strengthened environmental regulations. One of the two types of ZES is the ZES using only the energy storage system (All-ESS), and the other is the ZES with fuel cell and ESS hybrid system (FC–ESS). The target ship is a tug operating in South Korea, and the main parameters are based on the specific circumstances of South Korea. The optimal capacity of the ESS for each proposed system is determined using an optimization tool. The total cost for a ship’s lifetime is calculated using economic analysis. The greenhouse gas (GHG) emission for the fuel’s lifecycle (well-to-wake) is calculated using environmental analysis. The results reveal that the proposed ZESs are 1.7–3.4 times more expensive than the conventional marine gas oil (MGO)-fueled ship; however, it could be reduced by 1.3–2.4 times if the carbon price is considered. The proposed ZESs have 58.7–74.3% lower lifecycle GHG emissions than the one from the conventional ship. The results also highlight that the electricity- or hydrogen-based ZESs should reduce GHG emissions from the upstream phase (well-to-tank) to realize genuine ZESs.

Feasibility Assessment of Alternative Clean Power Systems onboard Passenger Short-Distance Ferry

“…In order to solve this multiaspect problem, different tools and approaches have been promoted to guide shipping operators in the identification of the most relevant and sustainable options when looking at a retrofitting/newly built vessel construction project targeting low emissions [30]. The goal of these approaches is to identify the most suitable/worthy-of-investigation technological solution, looking at both the vessel and targeted clean power system/fuel peculiarities [31].…”