Green Future: Key differences between gas and oil

Since the enactment of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2020 regulations, the use of LNG as a new generation of Marine fuel has gained broad consensus in the industry, and more and more new shipbuilding projects choose LNG as a fuel host.

In the field of Marine fuels, natural gas is usually stored and transported in liquid form and therefore needs to be converted from liquid to gas during combustion. The advantages of using LNG fuel include: large reserves, energy costs are basically comparable to Marine diesel (MDO), and there is no need for large-scale transformation and innovation in propulsion technology and fuel storage technology. In addition, transporting the same tonnage of cargo, LNG has lower pollutant emissions than other fossil fuels. The following data show that natural gas has a significant advantage in terms of CO2 and SO2 emissions compared to MGO, MDO and HFO:

Compared to other fossil fuels used in shipping, LNG has a clear advantage in terms of pollutant emissions

In addition, the use of LNG fuel can significantly reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) and atmospheric particulate matter (PM) emissions. Due to their strong acidification and eutrophication effects, sulphur oxide (SOx) and NOx emissions can have a great impact on sensitive ecosystems. The emission of PM and SOx may cause serious harm to human respiratory system. CO2 emission is one of the most serious climate challenges in the world today, and it is also the main driver of global climate change.

At present, gas fuel engine technology is maturing to adapt to the current market and industry conditions. Marine engines using LNG as fuel mainly include: thin burn spark ignition engine (LBSI), dual fuel gas engine and gas diesel engine. Although hydrocarbon (HC) emissions are higher in dual-fuel and lean-burn engines compared to diesel engines, HC emissions can be reduced by about 80% through the use of oxidation catalysts.

Future Energy Outlook - Transition and renewable energy

Green ideas and practices are driving carbon caps and reductions across the board, and with the many post-COVID-19 economic stimulus measures, there are growing signs that the world is reducing its reliance on carbon-based fuels at a faster pace. Some market participants have speculated that the pandemic could accelerate the arrival of peak demand for fossil fuels, particularly coal and oil. The original data suggested that peak demand for fossil fuels could occur between 2030 and 2035. But recent research suggests that the peak is more likely to occur between 2025 and 2030. This is now an important factor to consider when comparing the differences between oil and gas. It is undeniable that fossil fuels will continue to play a pivotal role in the energy and economic systems for quite some time to come. But fortunately, there are a variety of measurement and control technologies available today to monitor pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. On the road to a green future, LNG will become one of the best transitional fuels for mankind.