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Application of Biogas and Biomethane as Maritime Fuels: A Review of Research, Technology Development, Innovation Proposals, and Market Potentials

Author

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  • George Mallouppas

    (Marine and Offshore Science, Technology and Engineering Centre, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, Larnaca 6023, Cyprus)

  • Elias Ar. Yfantis

    (Marine and Offshore Science, Technology and Engineering Centre, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, Larnaca 6023, Cyprus
    Department of Engineering, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus)

  • Constantina Ioannou

    (Marine and Offshore Science, Technology and Engineering Centre, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, Larnaca 6023, Cyprus)

  • Andreas Paradeisiotis

    (Marine and Offshore Science, Technology and Engineering Centre, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, Larnaca 6023, Cyprus)

  • Angelos Ktoris

    (Marine and Offshore Science, Technology and Engineering Centre, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute, Larnaca 6023, Cyprus)

Abstract

This review paper examines the applicability of biogas and biomethane as potential maritime fuels and examines issues of these fuels from a supply chain perspective (from production to end use). The objectives are to identify: (1) the latest research, development, and innovation activities; (2) issues and key barriers related to the technology readiness to bring biogas/biomethane to market; and (3) commercialisation issues, including cost parity with natural gas (the main competitor). A survey of the literature was carried out based on research articles and grey literature. The PESTEL and SWOT analyses identified opportunities for these fuels due to the relevant regulations (e.g., Fit for 55; the recent inclusion of the Mediterranean Sea as a SECA and PM control area; MPEC 79), market-based measures, and environmental, social, and governance strategies. The potential of biomass feedstock is estimated to have a substantial value that can satisfy the energy needs of the maritime industry. However, production costs of biomethane are high; estimated to be 2–4 times higher compared to natural gas. The market is moving in the direction of alternative drop-in fuels, including liquefied and compressed biomethane (LBM and CBM) and biogas. In terms of potential market penetration, LBM can be used as a marine drop-in fuel for the existing fleet that already combust LNG and LPG due to similar handling. Currently, these vessels are LNG and LPG tankers. However, in newly built vessels, LBM can be also supplied to container ships, vehicle carriers, and bulk carriers (about 20% of newly built vessels). Provided that compressed natural gas infrastructure exists, CBM can be exploited in vessels with low energy needs and low space requirements and shore-side electrification, because investments in retrofits are lower compared to constructing new infrastructure.

Suggested Citation

  • George Mallouppas & Elias Ar. Yfantis & Constantina Ioannou & Andreas Paradeisiotis & Angelos Ktoris, 2023. "Application of Biogas and Biomethane as Maritime Fuels: A Review of Research, Technology Development, Innovation Proposals, and Market Potentials," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(4), pages 1-25, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:4:p:2066-:d:1074680
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    1. Egidijus Buivydas & Kęstutis Navickas & Kęstutis Venslauskas, 2024. "A Life Cycle Assessment of Methane Slip in Biogas Upgrading Based on Permeable Membrane Technology with Variable Methane Concentration in Raw Biogas," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(8), pages 1-18, April.
    2. Gayathri Priya Iragavarapu & Syed Shahed Imam & Omprakash Sarkar & Srinivasula Venkata Mohan & Young-Cheol Chang & Motakatla Venkateswar Reddy & Sang-Hyoun Kim & Naresh Kumar Amradi, 2023. "Bioprocessing of Waste for Renewable Chemicals and Fuels to Promote Bioeconomy," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-24, May.
    3. Juan Félix González & Carmen María Álvez-Medina & Sergio Nogales-Delgado, 2023. "Biogas Steam Reforming in Wastewater Treatment Plants: Opportunities and Challenges," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-35, September.

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