Hydrogen as fuel assessed in LR report

Hydrogen is likely to play a major role to play in shipping’s decarbonisation drive, according to a new report from Lloyd’s Register (LR). The latest publication in the classification society’s ‘Fuel for Thought’ series examines the scope for its development as fuel, both directly and as a component in the development of green ammonia and methanol.

Although green hydrogen has the potential to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions between tank and wake, it has drawbacks including low volumetric energy density, a very low boiling point of -253ºC, and a series of significant safety risks.

These factors, the report notes, are the principal reasons that hydrogen as fuel has not yet taken hold, accounting for less than 0.5% of the global orderbook so far. Despite the obstacles, however, LR’s analysis identifies near-term opportunities such as vessels trading on short-sea routes including ferries, tugs and coastal vessels.

LRs Lead Technical Specialist in Cryogenic and Compressed Fuel Systems, Padmini Mallacheruyu, said: “Hydrogen has an important role to play in the maritime energy transition, but the pathway to scale is complex. Progress will depend on early investment, careful planning and a clear focus on safety. Our latest Fuel for Thought report brings clarity to both the potential of hydrogen and the substantial work still required to enable its safe, scalable and commercially viable use.”