Fuel for Thought: Hydrogen is Lloyd’s Register’s definitive guide to the role of hydrogen in the maritime sector’s journey towards decarbonisation. As the industry faces unprecedented pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, hydrogen emerges as a cornerstone of the clean energy transition. This report provides expert insights into hydrogen’s potential to transform shipping, offering a clear-eyed assessment of the opportunities, challenges, and pathways for adoption.
Hydrogen offers near-zero emissions when produced from renewable sources, enabling up to a 100% reduction in well-to-wake greenhouse gas emissions. Its versatility allows it to be used in internal combustion engines, fuel cells, hybrid systems, and as a key component in other zero-emission fuels. As a future-proof solution, hydrogen aligns with global decarbonisation goals and upcoming IMO regulations, ensuring long-term compliance and sustainability. Additionally, hydrogen’s wide applicability makes it suitable for a broad range of vessel types and operational profiles, supporting the maritime sector’s transition to cleaner energy.
Decisions in maritime energy are now driven not only by technological advances and economics, but by environmental imperatives and regulatory compliance. Lloyd’s Register is committed to guiding the industry safely and sustainably through this transition, equipping stakeholders with the knowledge needed to make informed, forward-looking decisions. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of hydrogen propulsion technologies, including internal combustion engines and fuel cells, and evaluates their maturity for marine applications. It offers an in-depth analysis of safety challenges, regulatory frameworks, and the crew training requirements necessary for the safe adoption of hydrogen.
The report also explores various hydrogen production pathways, supply chain logistics, and the infrastructure needed to support widespread use. Economic drivers are examined, with insights into regulatory incentives, fuel price forecasts, and the commercial viability of hydrogen-powered shipping. Real-world examples and ongoing industry initiatives are presented through case studies and projects, while the summary and conclusions deliver a balanced perspective on hydrogen’s potential, the challenges to be addressed, and the overall outlook for the maritime sector.
