Authors
Shuyun Li, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Inland vessels account for approximately 99% of all U.S. flagged fleets, 26% of total energy consumption, and 25% of greenhouse gas emissions within the U.S. maritime sector. These vessels include harbor crafts such as commercial fishing boats, ferries, and barges, as well as non-commercial vessels such as personal watercraft and personal fishing boats. The inland marine sector is receiving significant attention as energy demand is expected to grow in the near future. To address the growing demand for fuel, the maritime industry is anticipated to adopt a variety of fuels, including renewable energy sources, to enhance U.S. energy security. Conventional fossil-based diesel and gasoline are the two fuels fueling these inland marine vessels. In this study, we focus on analyzing the potential role and key challenges of their renewable alternatives — biodiesel, renewable diesel, renewable gasoline, and bio-alkylates. The primary objectives of this study are (1) to conduct a comprehensive review to assess the main opportunities and limitations of using these fuels in inland marine vessels, and (2) to conduct a techno-economic and life cycle assessment of these fuels to evaluate economic and environmental metrics including minimum fuel selling price (MFSP) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Using data sources such as peer-reviewed literature reviews, technical reports, announcements from the industry, and other stakeholder engagements, we analyzed the market and technical potential of using these fuels in inland marine vessels. Life cycle assessment was conducted using the R&D Greenhouse Gas, Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Technology (GREET®) Model. Our findings elucidate specific solutions to overcome barriers and discuss opportunities, providing key insights to increase energy supply in the maritime sector by adopting these alternative fuels for inland vessels.
