In 2018, shipping accounted for an estimated 1,076 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions, representing approximately 2.9% of global emissions from human activities. Projections indicate that emissions from the sector could increase by as much as 130% relative to 2008 levels by mid-century, posing a significant challenge to achieving the climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.
The European Union (EU), similarly, faces the environmental consequences of a growing maritime sector, which contributes to about 3-4% of total EU GHG emissions. In response, both the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the EU have set ambitious targets to mitigate the sector’s environmental impact. The IMO’s strategy includes a 50% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 and a 70% reduction by 2050. In parallel, the EU has implemented policies like revising the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and promoting the use of low-carbon marine fuels.
Against this backdrop, the MARPOWER project stands out as a significant initiative aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency within the maritime transport sector. The project seeks to develop a high-speed gas turbine generation technology, equipped with a bottoming cycle, which is fuel-flexible and highly efficient. This innovation could drastically reduce emissions, improve energy use in maritime applications, and support the sector’s transition to sustainable, alternative fuels.
Key areas of impact
- Reduction of GHG emissions and air pollutants The MARPOWER project is designed to address both greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants associated with maritime transport. Historically, the industry’s reliance on heavy fuel oils has contributed to significant air pollution, releasing large quantities of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter (PM). By developing cleaner energy alternatives, MARPOWER aims to mitigate these harmful emissions. Early projections suggest that the technologies being developed could lead to a reduction in GHG emissions of up to 21%. Furthermore, the project is expected to reduce noise and vibration levels, providing additional benefits for environmental and human health.
- Technological advancements in high-speed generation A central innovation of the MARPOWER project lies in its development of high-speed generation technology tailored specifically to maritime applications. The project focuses on advancing gas turbine and waste heat recovery systems, which promise to operate with higher efficiency and lower emissions compared to traditional maritime engines. The integrated system is designed to be fuel-flexible, energy-efficient, and capable of running on a range of sustainable fuels such as hydrogen and biofuels. This adaptability enhances the maritime sector’s ability to transition to alternative fuels while maintaining high performance, marking a critical step toward reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.
- Economic benefits and technological viability MARPOWER is also focused on ensuring that its technological innovations are economically viable. The project’s goal is to deliver fuel-efficient power conversion systems that offer both technological reliability and economic competitiveness. Early estimates suggest that the adoption of MARPOWER systems could reduce fuel consumption by approximately 9%, while also leading to a 40% reduction in maintenance costs. By improving the cost-effectiveness of sustainable energy solutions, MARPOWER could make alternative maritime fuels more attractive to the shipping industry. Additionally, the systems’ scalability, resilience, and safety features position them to be widely adopted, bolstering Europe’s leadership in green maritime technologies.
- Environmental and societal benefits The environmental advantages of the MARPOWER project extend far beyond technological improvements. By supporting the EU’s broader climate neutrality objectives for 2050, the project contributes to the reduction of CO₂ emissions from maritime transport. This will not only improve air quality but also promote better public health outcomes. Furthermore, the implementation of MARPOWER technologies is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation in the production, installation, and maintenance of the new systems, thus fostering a green economy within the EU.
- Regulatory support and international cooperation In addition to its technological and environmental benefits, the MARPOWER project seeks to shape regulatory frameworks that will drive the future of sustainable maritime transport. By providing technical insights to EU policymakers and the IMO, MARPOWER supports the development of regulations that facilitate the integration of alternative fuels and the necessary infrastructure at ports. This collaboration ensures that the innovations fostered within the project align with global efforts to decarbonize the shipping sector and meet international climate targets.
The future of maritime sustainability with MARPOWER
The MARPOWER project represents a substantial leap forward in the maritime sector’s journey toward sustainability. Through its focus on fuel-flexible, high-efficiency power conversion systems, the project offers a viable pathway for reducing emissions while maintaining the economic competitiveness of the shipping industry. The development of high-speed generation technology will enable faster, more efficient propulsion, which is crucial for both environmental goals and maintaining the pace of global trade. Given the scalability of its solutions, MARPOWER has the potential to play a critical role in the decarbonization of maritime transport on a global scale. Additionally, the project positions Europe as a leader in the transition to sustainable maritime technologies, setting a precedent for future global shipping operations. Aligned with the EU’s climate neutrality goals for 2050, MARPOWER reinforces Europe’s role in the green transition, offering a model for sustainable shipping that could influence global maritime practices for years to come.Sources of the data above include:
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- Abdulaziz M. T.et al. Techno-Environmental Mission Evaluation of Combined Cycle Gas Turbines for Large Container Ship Propulsion. 2022.
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- Fourth Annual Report from the European Commission on CO2 Emissions from Maritime Transport (period 2018-2021).
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- Initial IMO Strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships (2018).