GEAR | Bio-methanol is most cost-effective low-GHG fuel for low-draught ferries, Dutch study finds

By Baird Maritime Gear Editor - May 10, 2021.

MEPS WEEK

Dutch engineering firm Conoship International has completed a study that determined the cost-effectiveness of bio-methanol as a fuel offering reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for low-draught ferries operating in the Wadden Sea.

The study was carried out using Adler Rum Hart, a 200-passenger vessel owned by local operator Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei.

Risk assessment of hazardous zones on open deck with bio-methanol as a fuel. The inner spheres indicate a considerable chance that a flammable substance is ever present. The outer sphere indicates very exceptional chance. The aft mast is the outlet of the tanks and the foremast contains the inlets of them. The sphere on the foredeck is the bunkering station. (Photo: Conoship)

Conoship said the trials determined that the carriage of bio-methanol will not have a significant effect on the general design of a vessel but clarified that some systems need to be changed to achieve functional requirements, particularly in the area of ventilation.

Conoship said that bio-methanol’s properties make it suitable for a ferry with a fixed route, in addition to being more readily available and usable compared to hydrogen. The company added that, with bio-methanol, emissions are largely reduced and, unlike LNG, it can reach CO2 neutrality when it is derived from a biomass source or synthetically produced with renewable energy.

See all the other news, reviews and features of this month’s Marine Engines and Propulsion Systems Week right here.