Lloyd’s Register (LR) research finds that a shortage of repair yards with experience in conversions may hinder the take up of alternative fuel technology by the existing fleet.
The Engine Retrofit Report 2023: Applying alternative fuels to existing ships research on the state of technology, integration and compliance, alongside the business case for retrofitting vessels, has found that repair yard capability and capacity concerns could thwart the uptake of alternative fuel technology onboard existing ships.
Key factors influencing the size of the market and the timing of retrofits, include:
- The date by which shipping begins building only zero-emission vessels
- The age at which owners or operators decide to retrofit their vessels
- The suitable engine types and bore sizes.
Energy transition
The report, has identified that retrofitting a significant number of the 9,000 and 12,900 large merchant vessels estimated to be part of the global fleet in 2030, could rapidly accelerate the maritime energy transition.
However, it also warns that these ambitions could be jeopardised by the limited number of repair yards currently capable of performing such conversions.
New skills
The study, which analyses the state of engine retrofit demand, capacity, and uptake, also points to the new skills in naval architecture, electrical engineering, and fuel handling which will be required if the industry is to use retrofitting as an effective tool to accelerate decarbonisation.
Key challenges
One of the key challenges with retrofits identified in the report is system integration, with significant issues such as accommodation for larger fuel tanks, space for fuel preparation equipment and ensuring safety measures are in place, all providing obstacles to rapidly retrofitting the existing fossil fuel fleet.
Techno-economic modelling data revealed in the study shows that the use of renewable methanol or ammonia would significantly increase fuel costs, in some cases more than doubling for vessels in all segments, however, a low-cost scenario, where alternative fuels decrease in price and carbon pricing rises, could tip the balance in favour of alternative fuels.
Human factor considerations
The study also highlights the importance of human factor considerations, underlining how the critical aspect of impact on crew members can often be overlooked during retrofitting. Assessing ergonomics, roles and responsibilities, competency and training, procedures processes, and occupational health will play a crucial role in ensuring retrofitting is safe and effective for ship operators.
The report, which includes updates on the latest technology from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) including Wärtsilä, MAN Energy Solutions and WinGD, can be downloaded here.
