Carbon Footprint and Economic Analysis of LNG-fueled Fishing Vessel Using Real Engine Performance Simulation

Abstract

Analysis of the environmental and economic performance of fishing vessels has received limited attention compared with other ship types despite their notable contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study evaluates the carbon footprint (CF) and economic viability of a liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled fishing vessel, using real engine operation simulations to provide precise and dynamic evaluation of fuel consumption and GHG emissions. Operational profiles are obtained through the utilization of onboard monitoring systems, whereas engine performance is simulated using the 1D/0D AVL Boost ™ model. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted to quantify the environmental impact, whereas life cycle cost assessment (LCCA) is performed to analyze the profitability of LNG as an alternative fuel. The potential impact of the future fuel price uncertainties is addressed using Monte Carlo simulations. The LCA findings indicate that LNG has the potential to reduce the CF of the vessel by 14% to 16%, in comparison to a diesel power system configuration that serves as the baseline scenario. The LCCA results further indicate that the total cost of an LNG-powered ship is lower by 9.5%–13.8%, depending on the share of LNG and pilot fuels. This finding highlights the potential of LNG to produce considerable environmental benefits while addressing economic challenges under diverse operational and fuel price conditions.

Keywords

1D/0D simulation / Carbon footprint / Fishing vessels / Life cycle assessment / Life cycle cost assessment / Liquefied natural gas

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