US National Blueprint for Decarbonisation Takes Cautious Approach

Within the maritime sector, the report notes that the recreational sector accounts for up to 20% of carbon emissions, the domestic shipping sector accounts for 30% of emissions, and the remaining 50% of carbon emissions are produced by international shipping (including fuel purchased within the US for international voyages.)

As a result, the report (which is available here) stresses the need for intergovernmental collaboration to promote effective decarbonisation.

Positively, the report also specifically idenfitfies the need for funding for vessel upgrades, retrofits, or conversions, and essential charging and refueling infrastructure, both at a vessel and at a port level.

While the report identifies electrification as a potential solution for smaller vessels and recreational boats, as well as in-port shore power or “cold ironing” using clean, onshore energy sources, it notes that there is considerable uncertainty about the best pathway for decarbonising the wider maritime sector.

The report concludes by identifying the need to promote research and innovation into viable alternative fuels and new technologies as a priority. 

While it includes a number of potential technologies, such as carbon capture, onshore power supply (or cold ironing), electrification and hybridization as potential solutions, it identifies sustainable liquid and gaseous fuels as the leading technological opportunity.