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Sustainability and Economic Viability: Transitioning RORO Pax Ships to Green and Blue Hydrogen Fuels

Author

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  • Nader R. Ammar

    (Department of Marine Engineering, Faculty of Maritime Studies, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
    Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt)

  • Ibrahim S. Seddiek

    (Department of Marine Engineering Technology, Faculty of Maritime Transport & Technology, Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport, Alexandria 1029, Egypt)

Abstract

This study examines the environmental and economic impacts of transitioning RORO Pax ships from diesel to green and blue hydrogen fuel, focusing on the Jazan case study vessel. It evaluates the environmental and economic effects for both retrofitted and new vessels. Findings reveal that hydrogen-powered PEMFC engines achieve a 99.13% reduction in NOx emissions and reduce both SO x and CO 2 emissions to minimum values. The analysis indicates that retrofitting with blue hydrogen can achieve a lifetime emission reduction of approximately 134 kton, yielding a net benefit of USD 4.46 per ton of emissions reduced. Newbuilding options present a more favorable financial profile at USD 19.31 per ton, surpassing green hydrogen’s USD 16.61 per ton. The study highlights the economic infeasibility of retrofitting existing vessels due to insufficient operational life, while hydrogen fuel becomes viable for sustainable new builds after 6 to 10 years, potentially resulting in annual cost savings of USD 2 to USD 3 million and competitive hydrogen production costs of up to USD 0.30 per kWh.

Suggested Citation

  • Nader R. Ammar & Ibrahim S. Seddiek, 2026. "Sustainability and Economic Viability: Transitioning RORO Pax Ships to Green and Blue Hydrogen Fuels," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-28, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:2:p:885-:d:1841272
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