Independent study shows LNG reduces shipping emissions by up to 21%
The demand for cleaner energy solutions is increasing in all transport and industry sectors. The increased demand is largely due to the need to reduce emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. The independent study report launched Thursday 11 April revealed that greenhouse gas reductions of up to 21% are achievable now from LNG as a marine fuel, compared with current oil-based marine fuels over the entire life-cycle from Well-to-Wake.
It also confirms that emissions of other local pollutants, such as sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), are close to zero when using LNG compared with current conventional oil-based marine fuels.
“This study confirms that our customers contribute to a cleaner environment and a cleaner future. From a market perspective, it gives an in-depth understanding for shipowners still in doubt whether to convert to LNG for their newbuilds. Taking into consideration that the study includes the entire life-cycle of the fuel it adds value and reasons to continue developing the LNG for marine fuel purposes and beyond”, comments Kimmo Rahkamo, Vice President, Natural gas and LNG at Gasum.
Reviewed by academic experts
The study, commissioned by SEA\LNG and SGMF, was conducted by leading data and consultancy provider Thinkstep according to ISO standards. The report, which has been reviewed by a panel of independent academic experts, is the definitive study into GHG emissions from current marine engines.
Engine technology
On an engine technology basis, the absolute Well-to-Wake emissions reduction benefits for LNG-fuelled engines compared with HFO fuelled ships today are between 14% to 21% for 2-stroke slow speed engines and between 7% to 15% for 4-stroke medium speed engines. 72% of the marine fuel consumed today is by 2-stroke engines with a further 18% used by 4-stroke medium speed engines.
Further information:
The full Well-to-Wake GHG Emissions Lifecycle Study can be accessed via the following link: https://info.thinkstep.com/lng-ghg-study?hs_preview=iCocCGSo-8445007461
Gasum is part of SEA\LNG and SGMF*, the organizations that commissioned a third-party study of shipping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
*SEA\LNG is a UK-registered not for profit collaborative industry foundation serving the needs of its member organisations committed to furthering the use of LNG as an important, environmentally superior maritime fuel.
The Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF) is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) established to promote safety and industry best practice in the use of gas as a marine fuel.
The energy company Gasum is a Nordic gas sector and energymarket expert. Together with its partners, Gasum is building a bridge towards a carbon-neutral society on land and at sea. www.gasum.com.
