The Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently launched a 16-month study of low-carbon options for shipping on the Great Lakes.
A research group will assess the suitability of alternative fuels and power options for Great Lakes shipping. It also will develop a detailed profile of Great Lakes fleets, ports, and fueling infrastructure.
MARAD will apply the results to future studies.
The research group also will summarize relevant domestic and international environmental regulations that will influence the adoption of the technologies.
The International Council on Clean Transportation will lead the research group in partnership with the American Bureau of Shipping and the Conference of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers.
“Decarbonizing the maritime industry has been a key objective of the Biden-Harris Administration, and MARAD is excited to be part of a study that will investigate new fuel and power options for Great Lakes shipping,” Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips said.
The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System extends more than 2,000 miles and contains more than 110 ports, making it one of the largest commercial waterways in the United States. It is vital to the supply chain, job creation, and strengthening of the economy, MARAD said.
The project is part of the Maritime Environmental and Technical Assistance Program.