Biofuels for Ships? New opportunity lies ahead for the ocean’s vessels but it won’t be easy

As feedstock growers look to the sky for the future of biofuels, some are looking to the sea. However, outfitting a ship to run on biomass diesel is easier said than done.

“Most folks know, or maybe don’t know, these vessels have enormous diesel engines. They probably have a lifespan of 40 or 50 years, and they’re not something that are easily swapped out. So, you’re not going to see a cargo vessel or a cruise line switch out their diesel locomotion for any other alternative fuel, like BV or compressed natural gas or something like that,” said Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs with Clean Fuels Alliance America.

Biofuel groups are backing the Renewable Fuel for Ocean Going Vessels Act, as it would allow companies using renewable fuels on their ships to claim credits under the RFS. The Clean Fuels Alliance calls it common sense legislation and says it would remove regulatory roadblocks.

Related Stories
Dr. Sally DeNotta with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides horse owners with guidance on the recent outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).
While the 2018 Farm Bill received an extension under the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act, the National Pork Producers Council wants lawmakers to do more to support the sector.
Buying a real Christmas tree directly supports U.S. farmers facing rising import competition, long production cycles, and weather-driven risks.
Tight cattle supplies continue to drive lower beef output despite heavier weights.
WTO gauges point to agricultural raw materials trade growing more slowly than overall goods, reinforcing the need to manage export risk and monitor policy shifts closely.
Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers details its campaign spotlighting the people who build equipment vital to farming and food manufacturing.