Assessing the technical and economic viability of implementing a fuel cell-battery system in a cable-laying vessel

The impact of adding a methanol-fuelled SOFC and batteries to the power plant of the NEXUS on the emissions, design and performance of the ship

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

F.J. Verbaan Mechanical Engineering

Contributors

J.L. Gelling Ship Design, Production and Operations - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 1)
L. van Biert Ship Design, Production and Operations - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 2)
P. de Vos Ship Design, Production and Operations - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (supervisor 2)
M Burg Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Mechanical Engineering
Copyright: © 2023 Floris Verbaan
Methanol SOFC Van Oord Fuel cells Emissions reduction Carbon neutrality Power plant
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Published Date

18-09-2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

This master's thesis addresses the urgent need to reduce the marine industry's environmental impact. Van Oord, a marine player, aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The study investigates integrating methanol-fueled Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and batteries into the cable laying vessel NEXUS's power plant.

The research shows that integrating these technologies can offer acceptable operational capabilities and substantial greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the medium term. However, short-term implementation faces challenges due to current SOFC limitations.

Economically, long-term fuel cost savings make this integration viable, despite high initial capital expenditure.

The study includes a literature review favoring SOFCs and methanol for cable laying vessels. The case study proposes a 1926 kW SOFC and a 1195 kW battery pack integration, resulting in significant fuel consumption and emissions reductions while complying with regulations.

In conclusion, integrating methanol-fueled SOFCs and batteries in cable laying operations presents an opportunity for efficiency improvement and GHG reduction, with long-term economic benefits. This supports Van Oord's commitment to carbon neutrality and addresses the marine industry's environmental challenges