Two-stroke engine sector: follow the leader

The most realistic and economically viable greenhouse gas emissions-reduction solution for ferry and cruise ship operators is currently LNG – while it is likely they will follow in the long term the two-stroke engine sector when it comes to the choice of alternative fuel.

Everllence (formerly MAN Energy Solutions) global director cruise Sokrates Tolgos says, “In my opinion, the cruise and ferry sector are a tiny part of the marine sector, and they will be obliged to tap into the alternative fuel supply chain for marine in general. The most realistic solution to achieve or come close to greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets for the next 10 years is the use of LNG, in combination with efforts to reduce methane slip.”

IMO MEPC 83 has set even more stringent limits than FuelEU Maritime, which will shape the future alternative fuel future landscape for marine. Mr Tolgos comments, “When it comes to which alternative fuels emerge, it will be more about economics than technical feasibility. The product which has a supply chain, and which is most economically feasible, will be the horse that will win the race.”

IMO MEPC 83 will have an impact on LNG use. Mr Tolgos comments, “In the next couple of years, LNG is the way to go. But its limits are clearly more stringent than FuelEU Maritime from 2030 onwards. From there on, operators will need to start blending with fuel of biogenic or synthetic origin or buying certificates in continuously increasing amounts.”

Everllence’s latest engine in its four-stroke portfolio, the 4960 dual-fuel engine, is at the forefront of the engine and alternative fuel transition.

“This is a new-generation engine, especially suitable for the cruise sector. The design and performance is such that it meets the FuelEU Maritime limits, and it is ok to use with fossil fuel LNG until the beginning of 2035. Then the limits get more stringent and that’s when we need to start blending with bio or synthetic LNG.”