This document highlights and questions a series of baseline assumptions and considerations which will underpin sections of the proposed Fifth IMO GHG Study’s terms of reference (TOR) as discussed during ISWG-GHG 17 and in reference to document MEPC 83/7/2 (Secretariat) on the revision of the Secretariat’s preliminary analysis and proposed TOR. Careful consideration of the holistic approach to energy provision, technology readiness levels, emission profiles, emission forecasting and comparative analysis of energy solutions is crucial to ensure fair transition pathways. Furthermore, ensuring the use of the best possible available science, data and methodologies to guarantee valid outcomes is increasingly important as new technologies and previously little-researched energy sources are now becoming more mainstream. This submission is not a definitive appraisal based on wind propulsion energy provision but instead uses wind propulsion as an example of how these assumptions and approaches can severely impact the assessment of one particular technology basket, which will be applicable to other low and zero-emission energy sources, technologies and operational approaches.
12 January 2024
This document presents the IWSA wind propulsion white paper compiled in the light of the recently adopted 2023 IMO strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships and the work underway on mid-term measures. The white paper delivers a detailed baseline assessment of wind propulsion technology (WPT) systems and outlines pathways underway for the dissemination and scaling of this technology segment. The content builds on the summary document MEPC 79/INF.21 (Comoros et al.) giving additional technology and policy context and a detailed macro and micro economic analysis of the benefits of following a wind-hybrid decarbonization pathway. These are supplemented by an updated market analysis and case studies covering numerous wind propulsion solutions. The report also delivers results from an IWSA initiated survey of industry stakeholder perspectives relating to wind propulsion uptake along with a detailed summary of barriers and drivers in the industry which help to inform the regulatory gap analysis and recommendations for further action. Submitted by Comoros, France, Solomon Islands and IWSA
