Tightening global emission regulations are forcing shipowners to make difficult decisions on limiting emissions, while switching to a different fuel type may prove impractical for fleets that include older vessels.
The latest report in Lloyd’s Register’s „Retrofit Research Programme” series examines whether onboard carbon capture and storage (oCCS) technology is a viable retrofit solution for vessels burning carbon-based fuels over the medium term.
Drawing on data from ongoing pilot projects and on the evolution of market conditions, the report offers a grounded assessment of the role this technology could play in decarbonising the maritime sector, at a time when carbon pricing mechanisms are expanding and access to alternative fuels remains uncertain.
The report covers the current state of oCCS technologies — from amine-based systems already commercially available to emerging capture solutions — and the lessons learned from projects implemented in real operating conditions. It also looks at the evolution of the regulatory framework, including initiatives such as the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime, and at the economics of retrofit projects: investment costs, fuel penalties, the impact of carbon pricing and applicability by vessel segment.
Although the first commercial installations have begun, many technical, legislative and commercial questions remain. The report aims to clarify these complex issues, offering a balanced view of how oCCS could fit into the energy transition strategy of the existing fleet.
Source: Lloyd’s Register — „Retrofit Research Programme” report, oCCS series. Photo: Sea Star (ship, 2012), IMO 9607710, Port of Rotterdam – Alf van Beem, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.