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Evaluation of Alternative Fuels for Coastal Ferries

Author

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  • Andres Laasma

    (Kihnu Veeteed AS, Papiniidu 5, 80023 Pärnu, Estonia
    Estonian Maritime Academy, Tallinn University of Technology, Kopli 101, 11712 Tallinn, Estonia)

  • Riina Otsason

    (Estonian Maritime Academy, Tallinn University of Technology, Kopli 101, 11712 Tallinn, Estonia
    Baltic Workboats AS, Sadama Tee 26, 93872 Nasva, Estonia)

  • Ulla Tapaninen

    (Estonian Maritime Academy, Tallinn University of Technology, Kopli 101, 11712 Tallinn, Estonia)

  • Olli-Pekka Hilmola

    (Estonian Maritime Academy, Tallinn University of Technology, Kopli 101, 11712 Tallinn, Estonia
    Kouvola Unit, LUT University, Tykkitie 1, 45100 Kouvola, Finland)

Abstract

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and European Union (EU) have set targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Focusing on ships above 5000 GT, their measures exclude several ship types, such as fishing vessels, offshore ships, and yachts. However, smaller ships generate 15–20% of the total GHG emissions. Multiple potential fuel alternatives are already in use or have been investigated to minimize carbon emissions for coastal ferries. This study evaluates the possibility of using alternative fuels for small ferries by seven different parameters: technical readiness, presence of regulations, GHG emission reduction effectiveness (with two different criteria), capital expenditure (Capex), operating expenditure (Opex), and ice navigation ability. The assessment is based on an evaluation of state-of-the-art literature as well as second-hand statistics and press releases. The study also reports the most recent implementations in each alternative technology area. As a result, it was found that although there are several measures with high potential for the future, the most feasible fuel alternatives for coastal ferries would be fully electric or diesel-electric hybrid solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Andres Laasma & Riina Otsason & Ulla Tapaninen & Olli-Pekka Hilmola, 2022. "Evaluation of Alternative Fuels for Coastal Ferries," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(24), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:24:p:16841-:d:1004369
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Saz-Salazar, Salvador del & Tovar, Beatriz, 2024. "On ferry users’ willingness to pay for improving environmental quality: A case study for the Canary Islands," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 154(C), pages 61-72.
    2. Igor Bačkalov & Friederike Dahlke-Wallat & Elimar Frank & Benjamin Friedhoff & Alex Grasman & Justin Jasa & Niels Kreukniet & Martin Quispel & Florin Thalmann, 2025. "Greening of Inland and Coastal Ships in Europe by Means of Retrofitting: State of the Art and Scenarios," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-30, June.

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