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
Iowa land values dropped 3% year-over-year. Sen. Chuck Grassley said this discomforting pattern is a harbinger of crisis for farmers, as seen in the 1980s.
Jed Bower, the incoming president of the National Corn Growers Association, joined us for his sector’s perspective on the ongoing government shutdown.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.
Expect firm demand for dependable HRS and SW, steady movement in HRW, more sorting on SRW, and selective bids on durum until full milling results are released.
Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.