Are battery-powered vessels the best solution for the domestic ferry segment? Case study for the domestic ferry segment in the Philippines

Abstract

The Philippines is aiming to significantly reduce its carbon footprint by 75% by 2030 as part of its Nationally Determined Contribution. One way the country is focusing on achieving this goal is by making its domestic ferries emit zero emissions. To this end, the use of electrified and battery-powered vessels is being explored, especially for short sea shipping. A life cycle analysis of diesel-powered ships and battery-powered ships for five different energy sources for electricity generation was carried out using the GABI 2020 software. The results showed that the environmental friendliness of a vessel depends on the primary source of electricity generation. While electrified ships can be environmentally friendly, they are not necessarily better than diesel-powered ships, particularly if the source of electricity is coal or heavy fuel oil. Based on the data obtained from the Philippines, transitioning to battery-powered ships necessitates the expansion of the national grid and the utilization of natural gas as an interim solution, while focusing on renewable energy sources for the medium and long term. Sustainable infrastructures such as shore power and smart grids in ports are crucial during this transition. To expedite the process, implementing effective policies like pay-for-pollution principles and providing incentives such as carbon levies, low-risk loans, and state contributions are essential.