Basic Study on Application of Fuel Cells to Ocean Going Vessels

Abstract

While IMO (International Marine Organization) regulates CO₂ emissions from ocean going vessels to protect the marine environment, efforts are underway to design and develop various systems to reduce such emissions. As part of these efforts, the author carried out a simulation by applying PAFCs (phosphoric acid fuel cells) that do not release air pollution gases to the electric power system of an ocean going vessel model. At first, the author developed a vessel model in consideration of routes, speed, sailing schedules, diesel engine generator capacity and electric power consumption etc. Then the author designed the electric power system with PAFCs based on the model. Finally, the simulation designed to supply electric power from the diesel engine generator and PAFCs was carry out. From the results of the simulation, the author calculated the degree of reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and concluded that the use of the PAFCs was an effective method to protect the marine environment.