Outlook of future implementation of PEMFC and SOFC onboard cruise ships

According to third IMO GHG Study shipping is responsible of about 2, 6% of world CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) emissions. The dangerous effect on people is increased because emissions are concentrated in coastal areas. IMO and other bodies are engaged in imposing measures to reduce GHG emissions and improve the overall ship’s energy efficiency. There are many technical and operational improvements that can help to reach these goals, but hydrogen and fuel cells remain one of the best candidates to substantially reduce emissions and fuel consumption. This paper gives an outlook of possible fuel cells applications in the marine sector and analyses the potential of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) for the on-board installation. The analysis shows the advantages that fuel cells can give in terms of emissions reductions and fuel saving, but also highlights some challenges that designers will face when implementing these technologies on a cruise ship. Both PEMFC and SOFC application in the marine sector suffer of the lack of standards and regulations from IMO and Classification Societies and high acquisition cost. While PEMFC are ready for marine application, SOFC are still in a study phase for on-board implementation. Also, the type of fuel used by these generators and the possibility of heat recovery can influence their application on-board cruise ships.