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Could electric-powered vessels be new wave of environmental responsibility?

Published : Friday, 7 June, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 337
Pranto Chatterjee
As the global community becomes increasingly conscious of environmental sustainability, Bangladesh stands at a crucial juncture in its transportation sector. The concept of an electric-powered passenger vessel presents a transformative opportunity that aligns perfectly with the nations goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. With the government of Bangladesh actively promoting green initiatives, transitioning to electric-powered vessels could not only bolster the countrys environmental credentials but also set a precedent for sustainable waterborne transportation worldwide.

The traditional reliance on diesel engines for propulsion in Bangladeshs shipbuilding industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Diesel engines emit substantial amounts of CO2 and other harmful gases, exacerbating global warming and air pollution. According to the Fourth Greenhouse Gas Study 2020, the global shipping industry accounted for approximately 2.89% of total human-related CO2 emissions in 2018, equating to around 1,056 million tonnes of CO2. Locally, Bangladeshs greenhouse gas emissions have risen sharply, mirroring the global trend. This escalation underscores the urgent need for alternative energy sources and advanced technologies that can mitigate environmental impacts.

Electric propulsion systems, in contrast to diesel engines, offer a zero-emission solution, drastically reducing the carbon footprint of marine transportation. With an energy efficiency rate of 85%, electric propulsion is more than double the efficiency of traditional diesel engines. This efficiency translates to lower operational costs over time, despite higher initial investments. Additionally, electric propulsion systems are compact and lightweight, enabling greater payload capacities and improved vessel performance.

A detailed cost analysis reveals that while electric propulsion requires a substantial initial investment, the long-term economic benefits are compelling. For instance, the conceptual design of an electric-powered passenger vessel for Bangladesh, accommodating 100 passengers, shows promising financial viability. The cost estimation for the propulsion system, including battery costs, propulsion machinery, and charging infrastructure, highlights the potential for significant savings over time. For example, the initial investment for electric propulsion infrastructure includes a permanent magnet AC motor and a battery set capable of powering a 7-hour trip. Despite these upfront costs, the operational and maintenance expenses are considerably lower than those for diesel engines.

A comparative analysis of diesel and electric propulsion costs demonstrates the economic advantages of electric systems. As of February 2023, the price of electricity in Bangladesh is approximately 7.86 BDT (0.073 USD) per kilowatt-hour, while diesel oil costs 109 BDT (1.01 USD) per liter. Given that one liter of diesel oil is equivalent to about 10 kilowatt-hours of energy, the effective cost of using electricity is significantly lower, resulting in savings of around 30.4 BDT (0.28 USD) per liter. This cost-efficiency is further enhanced by lower maintenance requirements for electric vessels, which do not suffer from the wear and tear typical of combustion engines.

The design of electric-powered vessels also incorporates several advantages that enhance their appeal. The general arrangement plan for such a vessel ensures optimal use of space, complying with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards for passenger comfort and safety. The structural design, based on guidelines for vessels under 90 meters, ensures durability and reliability. The use of electric propulsion allows for cleaner propulsion spaces, reduced noise, and minimal vibration, contributing to a more pleasant passenger experience and lower environmental impact.

Safety measures are paramount in the design of electric vessels. Fire prevention and firefighting protocols are meticulously planned, including the installation of fire detection sensors, water-cooling systems, and gas ventilation mechanisms for battery storage areas. Crew training in fire prevention further enhances safety, ensuring that potential hazards are effectively managed.

The adoption of electric-powered passenger vessels aligns with Bangladeshs commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 5% by 2030, as stated in its nationally determined contribution (NDC) roadmap. Achieving this target requires innovative approaches to transportation, and electric vessels offer a viable solution. Beyond environmental benefits, the shift to electric propulsion supports global efforts to combat climate change, setting an example for other nations to follow.

Electric propulsion also offers significant potential for technological advancement and automation. The integration of modern control systems can enhance operational efficiency and safety, paving the way for further innovations in marine transportation. As the global market for electric propulsion technology grows, Bangladesh can position itself as a leader in sustainable shipbuilding, attracting investment and fostering economic growth.

The transition to electric-powered passenger vessels represents a strategic move for Bangladesh, aligning with both national and global environmental goals. The advantages of electric propulsion, from reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower operational costs to enhanced safety and passenger comfort, make it a compelling choice for the future of waterborne transportation. As Bangladesh strives to build a sustainable and advanced economy, embracing electric propulsion technology is not only a necessity but also an opportunity to lead by example in the fight against climate change. The implementation of electric-powered vessels will not only benefit the nation but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable world.

The writer is a former Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholar, holding a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from NIT Durgapur, India



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