ISSUE 10 // MAY 2024 BRITANNIA LOSS PREVENTION THE MARITIME INDUSTRY ENCOUNTERS UNPRECEDENTED CHALLENGES AS IT STRIVES FOR DECARBONISATION AND THE ATTAINMENT OF NET-ZERO EMISSIONS. ALTERNATIVE FUELS - LNG Decarbonising shipping is not only an environmental imperative but also an emerging area of innovation, reflecting the industry’s shift towards alternative fuels. OUR PARTNER FOR THIS ISSUE Waves Group is a leading, independent maritime and offshore consultancy with a global presence. We provide essential advice, analysis, and data to support clients in the shipping and offshore energy sectors, enhancing operational confidence and certainty in outcomes. Our 24/7 worldwide response team assists clients in both planned projects and unforeseen circumstances. With a solid track record built on years of operational experience, we offer practical advice backed by detailed technical analysis and data, reducing uncertainty and solving problems effectively. Our team of experts, including Master Mariners, Marine Engineers, Naval Architects, and Maritime Civil Engineers, offers specialised expertise in areas such as fires, marine salvage, offshore energy, cranes, alternative fuels and maritime data acquisition and analysis. From project inception to completion and beyond, we support clients in marine casualties, disputes, port operations, offshore energy infrastructure construction and decommissioning. With offices located in London, Southampton, Singapore, Houston, and Rotterdam, we ensure swift and efficient support for projects worldwide. LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG) IS CURRENTLY TAKING THE LEAD AS A TRANSITIONAL FUEL; HOWEVER, SEVERAL POTENTIAL ZERO-EMISSION FUELS SUCH AS METHANOL AND HYDROGEN ARE ALSO ON THE RISE. IT IS UNCERTAIN WHICH FUEL WILL BE THE PREFERRED CHOICE OF THE FUTURE, AND IT IS LIKELY THAT A VARIETY OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS WILL BE REQUIRED TO MEET FUTURE DEMAND. As part of their decision making, shipowners need to perform due diligence which includes a thorough risk identification and assessment when choosing an alternative fuel. As part of this assessment, several stakeholders will need to be consulted, for example the engine maker, fuel supplier, classification society, hull & machinery insurers and the ship’s flag state. CONSIDERATIONS THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT INCLUDE: 1. SUITABILITY AND IMPACT ON THE ON BOARD ENGINES The engine maker should be consulted to determine whether the on board engines are suitable for consuming the selected alternative fuel or whether the engine will require any retrofitting. 2. FUEL MANAGEMENT Handling alternative fuel on board is likely to present different operational hazards compared to other fuels. Therefore, it is essential to train the crew properly in handling these new fuels. 3. HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT (HSE) While the alternative fuels may have their obvious environmental benefits, they may come with some increased safety risks. Therefore, any alternative fuel should be accompanied by a thorough assessment of its HSE risks, and this should form the basis of the on board safety measures for handling the fuel. 4. QUALITY With the current lack of international standardisation, a clear and detailed bunker specification needs to be developed by the shipowner to ensure suitable fuel is delivered. Britannia’s loss prevention department has collaborated with Waves Group to provide practical advice on the widely discussed alternative fuels: Biofuels, Liquefied Natural Gas, Methanol,