LNG as bunker fuel and regulatory framework from IMO

Kostis, Christos; Κωστής, Χρήστος

Master Thesis

Author

Kostis, Christos

Κωστής, Χρήστος

Date

2025-06

Abstract

The International Maritime Organization has established demanding targets for the maritime sector to be entirely decarbonized by 2050. To achieve these targets, the industry is transitioning from conventional fuels to less carbon-intensive alternatives and the frontrunner has become Liquefied Natural Gas. Within this study, LNG will be analyzed by comparing its application and potential alternatives extensively throughout the IMO’s revision as well as its technical, practicable environmental advantages and long-term sustainable aspects. A comprehensive life-cycle assessment of LNG looking at both compliance and costs is necessary to fully appreciate the impacts of LNG. It elaborates on the key parameters such as Energy efficiency existing ship index and Carbon Intensity indicator of the IMO strategy. It then uses those standards to assess how LNG compares around the world on environmental goals. The study also examines technical and operational attributes of LNG-powered vessels, the fueling infrastructure, and how storage and propulsion technologies affect operational issues and advantage LNG over other alternatives. The economic feasibility is also paramount to success. This research includes the effects of fluctuations in fuel prices over time and capital outlays in infrastructure on the costs of switching to LNG, and the potential effects of subsidies to encourage greener shipping on the long-term economic feasibility of LNG as compared to conventional fuels. To further say, pan the responsibility shifts from shipowners, regulators and port authorities to the gas uptake. Though LNG has some advantages, it raises methane-leak questions and has ambiguous rules, and it faces fast-moving competitors that could leave it in the dust over many decades. How these issues are handled is crucial to whether liquefied natural gas is a bridge or a destination. This study aims to serve the industry, by supporting leaders in aligning LNG plans of associated activity with 2050 solutions. This analysis through regulatory, technical, economic and environmental impacts offers an insight into LNG’s potential as an appropriate and viable medium-term solution for the shipping industry. While LNG bears advantages, questions linger around methane leaks, uncertain rules, and fast-evolving competitors that could surpass it over the decades. Tackling these issues is paramount to deciding if LNG serves as a bridge or solution. Ultimately, this research aims to provide guidance for the industry, advising decision-makers on aligning LNG strategies with 2050 goals. Weighing regulations, technical feasibility, economics, and environmental effects offers a holistic outlook on LNG's power to forge a sustainable path forward for shipping.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Ναυτιλία

Department

Σχολή Ναυτιλίας και Βιομηχανίας. Τμήμα Ναυτιλιακών Σπουδών

Number of pages

Language

English

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/18020

Collections

Τμήμα Ναυτιλιακών Σπουδών

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα