FEATURES OF THE INFLUENCE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY ON THE EFFICIENCY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY OF MARITIME TRANSPORT

Abstract

The world is facing the challenge of steadily increasing energy consumption. At the same time, energy resources are becoming scarce. Despite the sudden, significant drop in fuel prices worldwide, research activities aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels as a traditional energy source still have the upper hand in the shipping industry. The use of clean and renewable energy sources, such as solar power, for example, is being proposed as a method to improve ship efficiency. Ships can benefit from solar energy due to the fact that most of their surface area is always exposed to the sun, especially in sunny regions. This article discusses the effectiveness and challenges of installing solar panels for auxiliary power generation on board a ship. The article emphasizes the need to develop renewable energy infrastructure for maritime transport. The results of the survey conducted as part of this study serve to inform policy makers on the extent to which policy can or should attempt to provide guidelines and incentives in shaping industry attitudes or behavior towards the use of renewable energy sources. There is a high degree of preference for renewables over fossil fuels for both ship power plants and households. While solar energy is the most favored type of energy for households, hydrogen combustion (80%) is the most supported alternative for commercial shipping power. Fuel cells are the next most popular (64%) alternative energy used on board ships, according to the maritime industry. The result also indicates that the preference for a particular type of energy on board is also based on other factors, such as feasibility, rather than personal preference.