Renewable fuels recommended for decarbonising marine leisure craft
There is a shift towards eco-friendly boating, driven by the increasing emphasis on sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Recent reports have highlighted the potential of internal combustion engines (ICEs) powered by renewable liquid fuels as a viable solution for decarbonising privately owned marine leisure craft. A study by International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) suggests that renewable fuel-powered ICEs can significantly reduce global warming potential, particularly for vessels with low usage and long lifespans, which are greatly affected by manufacturing and maintenance impacts.
Renewable liquid fuels present a unique advantage: they can be used in existing fossil fuel-powered ICEs and refuelling infrastructures with little to no modifications. This compatibility allows for a smoother transition and immediate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions for current marine leisure craft. Additionally, the study indicates that ICEs running on renewable fuels may face fewer economic and performance challenges compared to other alternatives, potentially facilitating broader adoption within the sector.
However, the availability of renewable fuels remains uncertain up to 2035. The report states that it is crucial to ensure the production of e-fuels and biofuels to maximize environmental benefits.
For marine leisure craft with high utilisation, such as those used in short-term rental applications, the study points to pure battery or hydrogen propulsion systems as suitable alternatives. These systems can offer lower in-use greenhouse gas emissions compared to renewable liquid fuel ICEs, provided that the hydrogen and electricity are sourced from low-carbon processes. In order to be economically competitive, these technologies need advancements in range and cost reduction.
The analysis underscores the sector's diversity, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all approach to decarbonisation policies is ineffective. Policies exclusively promoting electric propulsion, for example, may yield better results for high-utilisation craft but could have a negative net decarbonisation effect on low-utilisation vessels.
