Assessment 1: Maritime Decarbonisation and Sustainable Shipping Operations

Bibliography

• Ampah, J.D., Yusuf, A.A., Afrane, S., Jin, C. and Liu, H., 2021. Reviewing two decades of cleaner alternative marine fuels: Towards IMO’s decarbonization of the maritime transport sector. Journal of Cleaner Production, 320, p.128871. DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128871
• Kanchiralla, F.M., Brynolf, S., Malmgren, E., Hansson, J. and Grahn, M., 2022. Life-cycle assessment and costing of fuels and propulsion systems in future fossil-free shipping. Environmental Science & Technology, 56(17), pp.12517-12531. DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c03016
• Balcombe, P., Staffell, I., Kerdan, I.G., Speirs, J.F., Brandon, N.P. and Hawkes, A.D., 2019. How can LNG-fuelled ships meet decarbonisation targets? An environmental and economic analysis. Energy, 188, p.116008. DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.116008
• Priftis, A., Boulougouris, E., Turan, O. and Atzampos, G., 2022. Multi-objective robust early stage ship design optimisation under uncertainty utilising surrogate models. Ocean Engineering, 251, p.110820. DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2022.110820
• Al-Breiki, M. and Bicer, Y., 2021. Comparative life cycle assessment of sustainable energy carriers including production, storage, overseas transport and utilization. Journal of Cleaner Production, 279, p.123481. DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.123481

Maritime Centre – Global Centre for Maritime Innovation (GCMI)

MODULE ASSESSMENT BRIEF

Module Code: 7503MAR
Module Title: Maritime Decarbonisation and Sustainable Shipping Operations
Academic Year: 2024/2025
Assessment Period: Semester 1
Assessment Number: Assessment 1
Assessment Type: Individual Technical Report with Business Case
Weighting: 50% of Module Mark
Word Count: 4,000 words (+/- 10%)
Submission Deadline: Friday, 20th December 2024, 14:00 GMT
Submission Method: Online via Canvas VLE

ASSESSMENT TASK

You are required to produce a comprehensive technical report that develops a decarbonisation strategy for a specific maritime operation, incorporating technical feasibility analysis, economic evaluation, and regulatory compliance assessment.

Task Description:

As a Maritime Decarbonisation Consultant, you have been commissioned to develop a detailed transition strategy for achieving net-zero emissions. Select ONE of the following maritime operations:

Option A: Deep-Sea Container Shipping Fleet
A shipping company operates a fleet of 15 large container vessels (average 8,000 TEU capacity) on trans-Pacific routes. The fleet currently runs on Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) and is facing pressure to comply with IMO 2030 and 2050 decarbonisation targets. Develop a phased decarbonisation roadmap that evaluates alternative fuel options (LNG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, battery-electric hybrid), propulsion system modifications, and operational measures to reduce carbon intensity by at least 40% by 2030.

Option B: Short-Sea Ferry Services
A regional ferry operator runs daily passenger and vehicle services across a 45-nautical mile route connecting two major ports. The current fleet consists of 4 diesel-powered RoPax ferries (each carrying 600 passengers and 150 vehicles). With increasing environmental regulations and corporate sustainability commitments, develop a comprehensive electrification and decarbonisation strategy, evaluating battery-electric propulsion, shore power infrastructure, hydrogen fuel cells, and hybrid solutions.

Option C: Port Terminal Operations
A major container terminal handles 2.5 million TEU annually and operates 12 ship-to-shore cranes, 40 rubber-tyred gantry cranes, 60 terminal tractors, and 25 reach stackers. Currently, 70% of cargo handling equipment runs on diesel. Develop a port decarbonisation strategy that addresses equipment electrification, renewable energy integration, cold ironing (shore power) facilities, and energy management systems to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSED

This assessment addresses the following module learning outcomes:

1. LO1: Critically evaluate the environmental impact of maritime operations and the regulatory framework driving decarbonisation (IMO GHG Strategy, EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime).
2. LO2: Analyse and compare alternative marine fuels and propulsion technologies in terms of technical feasibility, energy efficiency, safety, and life-cycle emissions.
3. LO3: Apply engineering principles and economic analysis to develop evidence-based decarbonisation strategies for maritime operations.
4. LO4: Assess the challenges and opportunities associated with maritime energy transition, including infrastructure requirements, operational implications, and supply chain considerations.
5. LO5: Demonstrate professional competence in communicating complex technical and business information to maritime industry stakeholders.

ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE AND CONTENT

Your technical report must include the following sections:

1. Executive Summary (approximately 300 words)

• Overview of the selected maritime operation and current emissions profile
• Summary of proposed decarbonisation strategy
• Key recommendations and projected outcomes
• Not included in word count

2. Introduction and Context (approximately 500 words)

• Description of the selected maritime operation
• Current operational profile and energy consumption patterns
• Baseline carbon footprint analysis (including emissions calculation methodology)
• Regulatory drivers and compliance requirements
• Objectives and scope of the decarbonisation strategy

3. Regulatory and Policy Framework Analysis (approximately 600 words)

• Critical review of applicable international regulations:
  • IMO Initial GHG Strategy (2018) and revised 2023 Strategy
  • IMO 2020 Sulphur Cap and future fuel standards
  • Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)
  • Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and rating system
  • EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) extension to maritime
  • FuelEU Maritime Regulation
• Regional and national policies relevant to your selected operation
• Market-based measures and carbon pricing mechanisms
• Compliance timeline and penalty structures

4. Alternative Fuel and Technology Evaluation (approximately 1,200 words)

• Comprehensive technical assessment of at least FOUR alternative solutions:
  • Technical specifications and readiness level (TRL)
  • Energy density and storage requirements
  • Propulsion system modifications needed
  • Bunkering infrastructure and availability
  • Safety considerations and risk assessment
  • Well-to-wake (life-cycle) carbon intensity analysis
  • Cost comparison (CAPEX and OPEX)
• Comparative analysis using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) or similar framework
• Technology roadmap and availability timeline

5. Proposed Decarbonisation Strategy (approximately 1,000 words)

• Phased implementation roadmap (short-term: 2025-2030, medium-term: 2030-2040, long-term: 2040-2050)
• Recommended fuel/technology pathway with detailed justification
• Operational efficiency measures:
  • Speed optimisation and voyage planning
  • Hull and propeller maintenance/upgrades
  • Wind-assisted propulsion (if applicable)
  • Waste heat recovery systems
  • Digital solutions and AI-based optimisation
• Infrastructure requirements and investment needs
• Fleet renewal versus retrofitting analysis
• Change management and crew training requirements

6. Economic and Financial Analysis (approximately 800 words)

• Capital expenditure (CAPEX) breakdown
• Operating expenditure (OPEX) projections
• Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis over 20-year lifecycle
• Fuel price scenarios and sensitivity analysis
• Carbon credit costs/savings under ETS
• Return on investment (ROI) and payback period calculations
• Funding options and green financing opportunities
• Risk assessment (technical, financial, operational)

7. Implementation Challenges and Mitigation Strategies (approximately 400 words)

• Technical barriers and proposed solutions
• Supply chain constraints (fuel availability, infrastructure gaps)
• Regulatory uncertainty and policy risks
• Stakeholder engagement requirements
• Safety and operational risks
• Recommendations for risk mitigation

8. Conclusions and Recommendations (approximately 400 words)

• Summary of key findings
• Strategic recommendations prioritised by impact and feasibility
• Critical success factors for implementation
• Future considerations and emerging technologies
• Final assessment of achieving 2030 and 2050 targets

9. References

• Minimum of 30 credible sources including:
  • Peer-reviewed academic journals
  • IMO regulations and guidelines
  • Industry technical reports
  • Energy and fuel suppliers’ data
  • Classification society guidance
• Harvard referencing style must be used throughout
• Not included in word count

10. Appendices (if applicable)

• Detailed calculations and technical specifications
• Comparison matrices and decision analysis tools
• Charts, graphs, and technical diagrams
• Supporting emissions data
• Not included in word count, maximum 6 pages

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND MARKING RUBRIC

Your work will be assessed against the following criteria:

MARKING DESCRIPTORS

First Class (70-100%): Outstanding technical analysis with sophisticated evaluation of multiple decarbonisation pathways. Exceptional understanding of alternative fuels and propulsion technologies. Innovative and comprehensive strategy with rigorous economic analysis. Demonstrates advanced research using industry-leading sources. Professional presentation with exemplary clarity and technical accuracy.

Upper Second Class (60-69%): Very good technical analysis with thorough evaluation. Strong understanding of decarbonisation technologies and regulatory framework. Well-developed strategy with sound economic justification. Effective research using quality sources. Professional presentation with clear technical communication.

Lower Second Class (50-59%): Good technical analysis with reasonable evaluation. Sound understanding of key concepts and technologies. Adequate strategy with acceptable economic analysis. Sufficient research with relevant sources. Generally well-structured with satisfactory presentation.

Third Class (40-49%): Basic technical analysis with limited critical evaluation. Fundamental understanding of decarbonisation options. Basic strategy with limited economic justification. Adequate research but may lack depth. Acceptable structure with some technical communication issues.

Fail (0-39%): Insufficient technical analysis or understanding. Weak or absent evaluation of alternatives. Poor strategy development with inadequate economic analysis. Insufficient or inappropriate research. Poor structure, presentation, or technical accuracy.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Calculations and Data Required:

Your report must include:

1. Baseline Emissions Calculation:
   • Annual fuel consumption (tonnes)
   • CO₂ emissions using IMO/IPCC emission factors
   • Energy Efficiency Operational Indicator (EEOI) or equivalent
   • Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating
2. Alternative Scenario Modelling:
   • Projected emissions under proposed strategy
   • Carbon intensity reduction percentage
   • Compliance with IMO 2030 (40% reduction) and 2050 (70%+ reduction) targets
3. Economic Analysis:
   • Net Present Value (NPV) calculations
   • Internal Rate of Return (IRR)
   • Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) comparison

Technical Standards Reference:

Your analysis should reference applicable standards from:

• IMO MEPC resolutions and guidelines
• Classification society rules (Lloyd’s Register, DNV, ABS, etc.)
• ISO standards for LCA and emissions accounting
• Industry guidelines (OCIMF, IPIECA, Getting to Zero Coalition)

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Format: PDF document only
• Font: Arial or Times New Roman, 11pt
• Line Spacing: 1.5 for main text, single for tables/figures
• Margins: 2.5cm on all sides
• File Naming Convention: StudentNumber_7503MAR_A1.pdf
• Cover Page: Student number, module code, module title, word count, submission date
• Page Numbers: Required on all pages
• Technical Diagrams: Must be clearly labelled with sources cited
• Tables and Figures: Must be numbered and referenced in text

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

All calculations, data, and technical specifications must be properly cited. You are expected to:

• Reference all emission factors, fuel specifications, and cost data
• Clearly distinguish between your own analysis and published data
• Properly attribute technical diagrams, charts, and images
• Avoid plagiarism through appropriate paraphrasing and citation
• Not collude with other students on calculations or strategy development

Submissions will be processed through Turnitin. Academic misconduct will be investigated under LJMU regulations.

FORMATIVE SUPPORT

The following support is available:

• Assessment Workshop: Week 3 – Emissions calculation methodology and fuel comparison frameworks
• Technical Tutorial: Week 5 – Economic analysis techniques and NPV calculations
• Industry Speaker Session: Week 7 – Guest lecture from maritime decarbonisation consultant
• Drop-in Clinics: Weeks 6, 8, and 10 – Technical guidance on calculations and analysis
• Draft Feedback Opportunity: Submit your emissions baseline calculation and one fuel option analysis (max 800 words) by Week 8 for formative feedback

LATE SUBMISSION POLICY

Assessments submitted after the deadline without an approved extension will incur a penalty of 10% of the total marks available per working day (capped at 5 working days). After this period, a mark of zero will be recorded.

Extension applications must be submitted at least 48 hours before the deadline via the Student Portal with appropriate supporting evidence.

ASSESSMENT FEEDBACK

Feedback and provisional marks will be released within 20 working days of the submission deadline via Canvas. Feedback will include:

• Overall grade and comments on each assessment criterion
• Strengths in technical analysis and strategic thinking
• Areas for improvement in calculations and methodology
• Suggestions for enhancing technical communication
• Guidance for Assessment 2 (Group Simulation Exercise)

MODULE LEADER CONTACT

Dr. James Patterson
Email: [email protected]
Office: Maritime Centre, Building 203, Room 4.22
Office Hours: Mondays 13:00-15:00, Wednesdays 10:00-12:00 (book via Canvas)

Technical Support:
Dr. Elena Vargas (Alternative Fuels Specialist)
[email protected]

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

Key Databases and Journals:

• Marine Policy (Elsevier)
• Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment
• Energy Policy
• International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
• Applied Energy
• Maritime Policy & Management

Industry Resources:

• IMO: MEPC resolutions, GHG strategy documents, Guidelines on life cycle GHG intensity
• Getting to Zero Coalition: Insight briefs and reports
• DNV: Maritime Forecast to 2050, Alternative Fuels Insight
• IEA: Renewable Energy reports, Energy Technology Perspectives
• IRENA: Green Hydrogen Cost Reduction reports
• Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center: Zero-emission vessel transition pathways
• International Chamber of Shipping (ICS): Decarbonisation roadmap
• UMAS (University Maritime Advisory Services): Technical reports

Data Sources:

• IMO Fourth GHG Study 2020
• Global Maritime Forum publications
• Classification society technical papers
• Fuel price databases (Argus, Platts, IHS Markit)
• Carbon credit price trackers (ICE, EEX)

Technical Calculation Tools (Reference Only):

• IMO EEXI and CII calculation methodology
• GHG Protocol for transport
• ISO 14064 and ISO 14067 standards
• Well-to-wake emissions calculators

LJMU Library Support:

Maritime Engineering Subject Librarian: [email protected]
Access to technical databases and industry reports available through Library portal

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Real-World Data: While you should base your analysis on realistic technical specifications and costs, you may use averaged industry data or typical values from published sources when specific operational data is commercially sensitive.
2. Future Projections: When discussing fuel availability and costs beyond 2025, clearly state your assumptions and reference industry forecasts.
3. Safety Considerations: All proposed solutions must reference safety standards and risk assessments, particularly for novel fuels like hydrogen and ammonia.
4. Currency: Use GBP (£) for all financial calculations unless specifically justified otherwise. Include exchange rate if converting from other currencies.