FBEQ - Energy Transition at Maritime and Ports

This paper evaluates the Total Cost of Ownership of transitional and long-term initiatives to decarbonize Container Handling Equipment. It discusses suitable energy sources for transitional and long-term applications. Next, it discusses the initiatives that leverage the energy sources to decarbonize the container handling operations. Finally, the TCO analysis evaluates the long-term initiatives' Operational expenditures (OPEX) and Capital expenditures (CAPEX).

The green energy transition has become a critical focus in the shipping industry. Shipping lines are trying to replace traditional fossil fuels with low-emission alternatives. Evolutionary game modelling and data simulations are the main methodology in this study. This paper examines the strategic interactions between shipping lines and cargo owners based on the Green Corridor initiative between Australia and Singapore. A 15,000 TEU container ship is used as a case study. The feasibility of adopting three alternative fuels is assessed: liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, and ammonia. It indicates that LNG currently holds a competitive advantage. The reason could be its developed infrastructure and lower additional costs. Methanol and ammonia struggle with adoption. Sensitivity analysis reveals that cargo owners' willingness to pay (WTP) significantly influences fuel transition. It confirms that the shipping industry is influenced by cargo owner's preferences for alternative fuels. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of coordination among key stakeholders, including governments, ports, and cargo owners. Therefore, effective incentive mechanisms should be designed to facilitate a sustainable and collaborative energy transition in maritime transport.

The transition to green shipping has predominantly focused on technological innovations to support the adoption of alternative fuels. However, there is limited research on the future competition for these scarce alternative fuels between the shipping sector and other industries. Additionally, the dynamics between shipping companies and fuel providers in adopting renewable fuels remain underexplored. In this study, we address these gaps through the lens of factor market rivalry, analyzing how competition for scarce resources shapes strategic decisions in the maritime sector. By investigating collaborative strategies between shipping companies and fuel providers, we explore pathways to facilitate decarbonization and overcome challenges related to fuel scarcity. Drawing on data collected from key stakeholders, we evaluate how shipping companies can reduce emissions, secure alternative fuels, and gain competitive advantages in a rapidly decarbonizing industry.

Saudi Arabia's position as a leading energy exporter is shaping the role of its ports in the global energy transition. While traditionally focused on fossil fuel exports, Saudi ports are increasingly considering integrating alternative fuel infrastructure, particularly for hydrogen and ammonia, in response to growing international demand for low-carbon energy sources and the Saudi new energy strategy. This study examines the role of Saudi ports as energy hubs, with a focus on the energy transition.
Using a qualitative case study approach, the research draws on secondary data from policy documents, industry reports, and academic literature, complemented by interviews and a questionnaire. The findings indicate that Saudi ports are leveraging their geographic advantage and existing trade networks to position themselves as key players in the low-carbon economy. Investments in smart grid technologies, energy-efficient port operations, and co-located industrial clusters could further enhance their competitive position. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding technological advancements, regulatory incentives, and international collaboration.
The study contributes to discussions on energy transitions in export-oriented ports by showing how Saudi Arabia's port infrastructure is adapting to shifting energy markets, in order to maintain their relevance in a decarbonising global economy.

The Adriatic and Ionian Seas are crucial for European transportation, as the natural link between container traffic flows through Mediterranean and European continent. The increase in container traffic requires modern and efficient ports. Beyond advanced handling equipment and hinterland connections, ports must adopt sustainable practices to remain competitive. The work outlines how Adriatic-Ionian ports can gain a competitive advantage by investing in green technologies, aligning with the preferences of environmentally conscious ship-owners and business partners. The paper describes research developments from the ongoing international (Italy-Slovenia) project DEMASTER (Design of Maritime Sustainable Terminals) focused on setting up a design methodology to integrate traffic, dimensional and equipment parameters with additional parameters representing the environmental, social and economic sustainability of terminal design and operation on a lifecycle basis. Data for the analysis derives from online databases, operator inquiries, focus group surveys, and direct measurements. It includes a dataset of over 300 terminals and validated on a selection of 15 case study terminals. Key milestones include a comprehensive literature review and extensive data collection, leading to an integrated methodology. This approach broadens its applicability to other ports, ensuring sustainable design and operation, considering environmental and socio-economic factors.