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Hydrogen Fuel for Shipping and Logistics in New Jersey: Sailing to a Sustainable Future

EnergyInfrastructure
Staff
Author: Staff
5 min.read

Global shipping is responsible for about 3% of annual CO2 emissions. The industry’s reliance on heavy fuel oil contributes significantly to climate change, air pollution, and health risks. Transitioning to low-carbon fuels and technologies is crucial for achieving net-zero emissions. Hydrogen fuel, with its potential for zero carbon emissions, is emerging as a promising fuel source. 

Hydrogen fuel is a clean energy carrier that can be produced through various methods, the most common being electrolysis of water. When used in fuel cells, hydrogen combines with oxygen to produce electricity, emitting only water vapor and heat as byproducts. This makes hydrogen an attractive option for decarbonizing the shipping industry, which accounts for nearly one quarter of all carbon emissions from the world’s transportation sector.

Several of the world’s largest container shipping lines, such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC, are actively exploring hydrogen fuel and other alternatives to meet their commitments to net-zero emissions by 2050. Hydrogen-powered vessels offer the high energy intensity needed to propel enormous ocean-going ships, making it a viable option for long-haul maritime transport.

Benefits and Challenges

The primary benefit of hydrogen fuel is its potential for zero carbon emissions, which aligns with ambitious climate targets. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable sources like wind or solar, offers the greatest potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, hydrogen fuel cells can be retrofitted into existing ships, making the transition more feasible for the industry. Infrastructure development is also a major hurdle though, as the shipping industry requires significant advancements in hydrogen production, storage, and transportation technologies.

What about Electric?

Battery-powered ships offer a promising solution but face their own challenges. Battery technology is not yet advanced enough for long voyages, and safety concerns like thermal runaway pose risks. Additionally, the high cost and limited lifecycle of batteries make them less feasible for widespread adoption. And, like hydrogen, ports would need significant infrastructure upgrades.

“Electric battery packs and shoreside power are another zero-emission option for the global shipping industry. Given current infrastructure, electric options are only realistic for short-sea trades or small domestic ferries.“

  • Juan Garcia Valencia and Amy Swift, “The Shipping Industry Won’t Meet its Decarbonization Goals without Investing More in Low-carbon Fuels”, World Research Institute

Impact on New Jersey

New Jersey is well-positioned to benefit from the adoption of hydrogen fuel in shipping and logistics. The Port of New York and New Jersey is the largest port on the East Coast and the third largest in the country, employing around 200,000 people directly and indirectly. The adoption of hydrogen fuel could significantly reduce emissions from shipping activities in the region, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) recognizes the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source. The state is actively exploring the use of hydrogen fuel cells in various applications, including transportation and industrial machinery. The New Jersey Fuel Cell Task Force has identified hydrogen and fuel cell technology as key components of the state’s clean energy goals, with the potential to generate $54 million in revenue and create 200 jobs.

Governor Murphy has emphasized the importance of clean hydrogen technology in expanding New Jersey’s diverse clean energy portfolio. The state aims to complement intermittent sources of electricity, such as offshore wind and solar, with hydrogen fuel cells. This approach not only supports the state’s climate goals but also enhances energy security and economic growth.

And New Jersey and its neighboring states, Pennsylvania and Delaware, are set to benefit from the Biden-Harris administration’s $7 billion investment in clean hydrogen hubs. This funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to accelerate the production and use of clean hydrogen, reduce carbon emissions, and create high-quality jobs. The Mid-Atlantic hub, serving these states, will produce hydrogen from renewable energy and nuclear power, supporting the region’s transition to a cleaner energy future. This initiative is expected to generate significant economic opportunities and help meet the U.S. climate goals.

Conclusion

Hydrogen fuel holds great promise for the shipping and logistics industry, offering a pathway to zero carbon emissions and a sustainable future. While challenges remain, the potential benefits for New Jersey are significant. 

Sources

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Staffhttps://tristateinfrastructurenews.com

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