ABS releases an overview of the emerging battery technologies in the maritime industry


Interest in shipboard battery systems has seen a rise in recent years. The possibility for reducing energy costs and environmental impact makes battery technology valuable for maritime use. Batteries can be used in a wide variety of applications, like peak- shaving in hybrid systems to help engines work at optimal loading and increase efficiency.


They can be used to run motors or as a backup power source to reduce generator load. This could lead to reduced fuel costs for both propulsion and electric power generation. Battery systems work well with discontinuous renewable energy sources such as solar or wind energy, allowing their energy to be converted and stored for use at times when electric power generation is not available.


The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) decarbonization targets make battery systems even more valuable. Reducing fuel consumption through the use of hybrid systems can aid greatly in reducing emissions to meet environmental requirements. For


hybrid systems to be effective, there is a need for efficient and sustainable battery technologies that can provide the power needed for such a system. Improved batteries also allow for renewable energy to be further implemented, potentially reducing emissions. As emphasis continues to increase on reducing environmental impact, this may be an essential technology for an eventual shift to more hybrid or even all-electric vessels. ABS has published an advisory exploring the advantages and challenges that come with hybrid systems on vessels, looking at technologies like solar energy and fuel cells that may be useful in such a system.


Read the full story and download the report at https://bit.ly/3crYLoW.


What caught my eye...


Mike Schwarz casts his


eye back over last month’s eye-catching and


eventful marine news It’s official - the shipping crisis is


making your coffee taste different! I am most grateful to Archie Hunter (Bloomberg) for sharing this gem with me when he broke this shocking story to the world! Coffee snobs have a lot to worry about right now. A global shortage of beans is already threatening to push up prices at cafes and supermarkets. Now, your morning cappuccino, or latte, might start leaving a bitter taste for other reasons too.


The world is facing a desperate shortfall of arabica coffee, the variety that gives the smoothest flavour and makes up about 60% of world production. Supplies were decimated after extreme weather destroyed crops, and with a La Nina weather pattern forecast through early 2022 expected to further hurt yields, it could take years for the market to recover. Arabica prices are surging to reflect the mounting crisis, while global shipping congestion is making it even harder to get beans where they are needed in any event. Anyone for tea?


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