Launch of Ship Carbon Capture Calculator Marks Milestone for Maritime Decarbonisation
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has launched a calculator to demonstrate the potential impact of onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) on reducing the number of EU Allowances required under the European Union’s Emissions Trading System. The tool was unveiled on October 19, marking the non-profit organisation’s fifth anniversary.
The Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage Impact Calculator models the entire carbon chain from capture and storage on board a vessel to offloading and downstream processing, ultimately estimating how much captured CO2 could be mineralised and the potential reduction in EU Allowances required. Users can adjust various parameters, including the CO2 capture rate, onboard storage capacity, and OCCS operating period.
The calculator is based on Project CAPTURED, which demonstrated an end-to-end chain for CO2 captured and liquefied on board a vessel, including ship-to-ship transfer, overland transport, and permanent binding through carbon mineralisation. The project achieved a 7.9% net greenhouse gas reduction at a 10.7% gross onboard capture rate.
GCMD’s Decarbonisation Efforts Gain Momentum
GCMD was launched in August 2021 as a Singapore-based non-profit organisation focused on maritime decarbonisation pilots and trials. Since then, the centre has grown its network to include over 130 centre- and project-level partners. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore provides funding for qualifying GCMD research and development programmes.
The launch of the OCCS calculator marks a significant milestone in GCMD’s efforts to accelerate maritime decarbonisation. The tool is expected to facilitate the development of more effective carbon capture and storage solutions, ultimately reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping industry.
Calculator Not a Regulatory Determination
It is essential to note that the OCCS calculator does not determine whether a particular OCCS operation qualifies for regulatory treatment. Rather, it provides a theoretical framework for estimating the potential impact of onboard carbon capture and storage on reducing EU Allowances required. GCMD cautions that the calculator’s results are based on operating assumptions, calculation boundaries, and the prevailing regulatory framework.
The launch of the OCCS calculator is a significant step forward in the pursuit of maritime decarbonisation. As the shipping industry continues to grapple with the challenges of reducing its environmental impact, innovative solutions like this calculator will play a crucial role in driving progress towards a more sustainable future.
Original Article: Singapore maritime centre launches ship carbon capture calculator for EU carbon market — Portnews