Decarbonization pathways for bulk vessels: Integrating power systems, fuels, and control measures

Abstract

The shipping industry must delineate feasible switching pathways of emission reduction technologies for vessels if it wants to meet the emission reduction targets set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This paper introduces a programming model integrating power systems, alternative fuels, and air emission control measures to decarbonize bulk vessel operations. The model captures the uncertainty in fuel prices and carbon emission prices. Reliable decision-making schemes are generated using interval quadratic programming. The results reveal that power systems will switch from mono-fuel internal combustion engines (MF ICE) to dual-fuel internal combustion engines (DF ICE). Traditional fossil fuels will progressively give way to carbon-neutral alternatives. The combination of air emission control measures will markedly reduce emissions.