Less is more
Hydrogen-powered small vessels in place of lorries. Could running autonomous hydrogen-powered small vessels be an economically viable option? A research group from the German University of Münster has concluded that, under certain circumstances, it could – though only beyond a certain distance.
Is it worth running small, autonomously operating ships with hydrogen propulsion? A group of students studying industrial chemistry at the University of Münster (Germany) has concluded that it is – at least under certain conditions.
The transport industry is searching for sustainable transport solutions, as the university pointed out. On inland waterways, using batteries is significantly more difficult than on roads. This is why the researchers are investigating a largely unexplored solution – namely autonomously operated hydrogen-powered boats.
Advantages over lorries
Under the direction of Professor Stephan von Delft a research team has developed a mathematical model for such a vessel and conducted a life cycle and cost analysis. The results aim to show whether hydrogen-powered boats can genuinely be more sustainable and cost-efficient than conventional modes of transport.
The analysis distinguishes between vessels powered by green or by grey hydrogen. According to the findings, green hydrogen becomes worthwhile above a transport distance of 576 km, when compared to diesel-powered lorries. Economic benefits compared to hydrogen or battery-powered lorries emerge from a distance of 624 km. The vessels could therefore “become a cost-optimal solution to transport goods over distances of more than 624 km.”
To replace 18% of road haulage
Extrapolating to total road transport, the team concluded that around 18% of it could be shifted to small vessels to enable more cost-effective delivery. The calculations were based on vessels that can carry precisely one container, which means they can’t replace containerships.
Doctoral candidate Simon Schlehuber pointed out, however, that the boats could serve as an alternative to lorries that also carry only a single container. In the context of climate change, it could also prove crucial that these boats, due to their shallow draught, can operate even when water levels are low.