Latest Report Offers Recommendations to Enable Implementation of OCCS
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released a report with key recommendations for adopting onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) technology in the shipping industry. The report emphasizes regulatory and safety considerations, the development of a secure carbon value chain, and increasing the cost-effectiveness of carbon capture systems.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
The report highlights the need for clear and consistent regulations on safety and environmental performance. It recommends developing safety guidelines for OCCS, covering equipment design, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures. Incorporating OCCS into existing regulations, such as the EEDI, EEXI, CII, EU ETS, and FuelEU Maritime measures, is crucial. Additionally, certification schemes for downstream CO2 value chain infrastructure should be developed. Defining acceptable levels of CO2 impurities and creating standardized guidelines for safe CO2 handling, including offloading procedures and port infrastructure requirements, are essential steps. The report also suggests amending Safety Management Systems and developing specialized training programs for crew members to cover the operation, maintenance, and emergency procedures for OCCS systems.
Development of a Secure Carbon Value Chain
Creating a secure downstream value chain is vital for the successful implementation of OCCS technology. This involves establishing CO2 offloading facilities, transport infrastructure, and long-term storage solutions. The goal is to permanently store captured CO2. Collaborating with industry stakeholders to develop Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) schemes is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the carbon value chain. The report emphasizes the importance of a coordinated effort to create a robust framework for standards and requirements, which will support the safe and efficient adoption of onboard carbon capture technology.
Increasing Cost-Effectiveness of Carbon Capture Systems
The report focuses on the need to develop OCCS technologies that increase CO2 capture rates and reduce energy demand, thereby enhancing cost-effectiveness. Demonstrating OCCS systems in pilot projects is recommended to gather operational experience and identify areas for improvement. The report also highlights the importance of continuous research and development to advance OCCS technology and make it more accessible to the shipping industry. By increasing the cost-effectiveness of carbon capture systems, the industry can move closer to achieving its net-zero emissions goals.
