Why Alternative Marine Fuels Are So Expensive
The global shipping industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Responsible for nearly 3% of global CO₂ emissions, maritime transport is now under pressure to transition toward cleaner energy sources. However, one major barrier remains: cost . Alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol are significantly more expensive than traditional marine fuels. This article explains why these fuels are costly, how they are produced, their chemical formulas, real prices in USD, and the future of green shipping. Why Alternative Marine Fuels Are Expensive 1. High Production Costs Most alternative fuels are produced using renewable energy, which is still more expensive than fossil fuels. For example, green hydrogen requires electrolysis powered by renewable electricity. This process is energy-intensive and costly. Current estimates show that green hydrogen costs between $5–10 per kg , making it far more expensive than conventional fuels....