To achieve global climate objectives, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has established a comprehensive strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping, aiming for net-zero emissions by or around 2050. Targets include achieving at least a 20 percent reduction in total annual GHG emissions by 2030 (striving for 30 percent, compared to 2008 levels) and attaining at least a 70 percent reduction by 2040 (aiming for 80 percent relative to 2008 levels).

 

By Bryan Reid

Ports are uniquely positioned to serve as hubs for clean energy innovation. By leveraging methanol-to-hydrogen systems coupled with fuel cells, ports can access clean, on-demand power that reduces emissions, enhances operational efficiency and strengthens relationships with maritime partners. These systems offer a practical pathway to clean energy and electrical power, addressing global emissions targets and the immediate power needs of modern port operations.

As the global maritime sector considers transformative ways to reduce emissions, leading ports (and shipping operators) are looking at hydrogen and its immense promise as a clean energy source. Hydrogen’s potential, however, is tempered by practical challenges. Hydrogen storage and handling is complex and costly, creating an infrastructure puzzle with unique hurdles and opportunities for both shipbuilders and port operators. A breakthrough lies in hydrogen on-demand, on-site systems that streamline hydrogen generation and deployment and offer ports a leading role in reducing emissions.

Why are port facilities poised to play such an outsize role in clean energy initiatives? From a readiness perspective, major ports are fitted with the methanol infrastructure that is the foundation of clean energy systems based on hydrogen-on-demand. Methanol—and by extension, methanol-to-hydrogen (M2H2) solutions—is readily accessible across most global shipping ports. In terms of flexibility and strategic operations, ports also feature flexible and expansive space, diverse end-use applications, and a growing drive to define themselves as tactical partners in the global journey toward a greener shipping industry. These factors, paired with the urgent need for clean energy and electrical power, make ports likely to adopt hydrogen-on-demand systems more readily and cost-effectively than shipbuilders.

The Goal of Modernizing Ports

With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) setting ambitious net-zero targets, it is logical and strategic for ports to prioritize seamless emissions reductions. It’s a goal that is well-reflected in the influx of government support for hydrogen infrastructure development. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) is overseeing the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs) program, designed to establish interconnected networks of hydrogen producers, users and supporting infrastructure. The program includes up to $7 billion to establish six to 10 regional clean hydrogen hubs across America. Overall, the initiative seeks to advance the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier capable of storing and delivering vast amounts of energy efficiently.

OCED is working with the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems to build the California Hydrogen Hub, a network of clean hydrogen infrastructure sites that incorporates multiple facilities, including California’s Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland. The goal is decarbonizing public transportation, heavy-duty trucking and port operations by 2 million metric tons per year—roughly equivalent to the annual emissions of 445,000 gasoline-powered cars.

Simplifying Hydrogen by Starting with Methanol

M2H2 systems use methanol as a feedstock fuel and hydrogen carrier for generating hydrogen-on-demand. It’s a low flash point fuel with management requirements that are deeply familiar to maritime professionals, given it is approved for storage, handling and bunkering in marine environments. It is already widely utilized as a feedstock globally, handled much like conventional fuels. With its liquid state at normal temperatures, biodegradability, water miscibility, and widespread availability in seaports, methanol offers a practical and economical choice as a hydrogen carrier.

Methanol itself is being scrutinized for ways to add further value to global emissions goals. Current M2H2 systems recognize this evolution and remain versatile, capable of utilizing both conventional and renewable methanol. As green methanol becomes more accessible, ports can seamlessly switch to this cleaner alternative, ensuring their sustainability investments remain future-proof for evolving greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards.

 

RIX’s M2H2 Series offers hydrogen-on-demand, integrating technology licensed from Element 1 (e1). Combined with PEM fuel cells, M2H2 systems produce power with no NOx, SOx or particulate matter. These systems deliver high efficiency, minimal vibration/noise and low emissions for power-critical applications.

 

The Power of M2H2 Technology

M2H2 systems convert methanol into hydrogen within a compact, self-contained unit, providing a steady supply of pure hydrogen, much like drawing it from a large storage tank. Commercially available M2H2 systems can be integrated into cabinet or container configurations, offering scalable, modular designs that deliver over 80 percent energy efficiency; when combined with fuel cells, these systems can accommodate power requirements ranging from 50 kW to multimegawatt-scale applications.

For example, an M2H2 hydrogen generator combined with fuel cell can efficiently power refrigerated containers (reefers) waiting at ports, generating up to 300 kW from a 20-ft. unit, scalable with additional units. Configurations are flexible and, depending on the number and scope of a port’s reefer population, the M2H2 would offer a bank of plugs for easy power connection. This aligns well with port activities and creates a stable micro-grid approach to electrical power delivery.

Another example features shore-to-ship power. This is the preferred method of power for ships to support hotel loads or refrigeration at port docks to reduce emissions, rather than continued operation of the vessel’s diesel systems. Reliable power generation via M2H2 systems combined with fuel cells ensure port operations during outages; ship facilities are maintained and cargo requirements are met, with steady power supporting operations such as cold ironing, reefer and auxiliary power.

Containerized M2H2 and fuel cell power systems can be easily relocated to provide power for various port operations and deployed where needed for both general port facilities and in support of docked ships. What sets them apart is their exceptional cleanliness and quiet operation, eliminating the noise and pollution typically associated with diesel systems. Combined with PEM fuel cells, M2H2 systems produce clean power with no particulate matter, NOx or SOx.

RIX Industries’ hydrogen generator systems, for example, enable the integration of advanced fuel reforming and hydrogen purification technologies directly on board marine vessels and heavy-duty logistic vehicles. The M2H2 Series is specifically designed to displace stored compressed hydrogen to support primary propulsion, auxiliary power systems, cold ironing and bunkering by providing high-purity (99.97 percent) hydrogen-on-demand. RIX’s scalable M2H2 Series applies to PEM fuel cell power systems from 100 kW to megawatts.

Tailoring Strategies for Port Profiles

Ports with extensive methanol infrastructure and bunkering as part of routine operations are well-positioned to adopt M2H2 technology and fuel cell-based power systems immediately. Others, such as container-focused ports (for example, Oakland), typically do not stockpile the large quantities of methanol necessary to fully utilize M2H2 technology. Despite this, container ports also face the dual demands of meeting power requirements and advancing environmental goals. To benefit from M2H2 systems, these ports would need an alternative approach, such as partnering with nearby fuel depots for methanol supply.

This added logistical step has minimal impact on infrastructure, as methanol is a stable, easily transportable substance. It can be delivered in intermediate bulk containers, which are modular, stackable and highly efficient.

 

The U.S. Department of Energy is working with the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems to build the California Hydrogen Hub, a network of clean hydrogen infrastructure sites/facilities, including California’s Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland (pictured here).

 

Partners in a Cleaner Future

Much like small cities, many ports are shifting to electrified equipment, including cranes and drayage trucks. Hydrogen-on-demand systems support this shift by enabling the use of both fuel cell and battery-electric vehicles. Additionally, ports can enhance their appeal to the refrigerated container business by offering reliable, off-grid power solutions that surpass the limitations of traditional power grids. By addressing air quality, noise, and pollution proactively, ports can also build stronger relationships with nearby communities, gaining the support of residents and businesses while advancing their sustainability goals.

Ultimately, M2H2 technology combined with fuel cells allows ports to implement clean energy solutions tailored to their unique operational needs. It’s a level of adaptability and flexibility not previously associated with hydrogen power, giving hydrogen-on-demand the real potential to bring innovative options to the surface. In embracing M2H2 technology, ports take a critical step toward becoming the “port of the future,” leading the charge in the maritime industry’s journey toward reduced emissions and sustainability. Where possible, a shipping operator may choose one port over another to better align with its emissions reduction targets and avoid penalties for non-compliance. Port operators play a crucial role in this transition, as their dedication to providing accessible and efficient hydrogen infrastructure can either support or hinder fleet owners’ shift to greener operations. Furthermore, some shippers are eager to highlight their commitment to sustainability, emphasizing clean shipping practices throughout the supply chain.

As the maritime sector evolves, ports that prioritize clean energy solutions will not only drive progress but also position themselves as indispensable partners in the global fight against climate change.

Bryan Reid is the chief sales officer of RIX Industries: breid@rixindustries.com.