ABSTRACT
To reduce emission from the electrical power generation on the ship, especially when in ports, new shipboard power systems with fuel cells for base load and battery for peak maneuvering power are being investigated by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) in partnership with the industry. Such a power system is achievable in the near future, especially in ships transporting liquid natural gas (LNG), which is a natural fuel for the fuel cell. Such a ship, when powered by fuel cells, would emit significantly less CO2 than current container ships using bunker fuel. The fuel-cell-powered electrical propulsion for a totally clean ship is feasible to design and operate, although at high cost at present.
