The U.S. Department of Energy recently published a request for information on the establishment of a consistent and reliable definition of sustainable maritime fuel that informs and aligns government, industry, community and other maritime stakeholders.
The fuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent to more than 100 percent, depending on type.
The agency also seeks feedback on other topics that could affect what qualifies as a sustainable fuel including acceptable feedstocks, criteria air pollutant inclusion, emission reduction technologies, global requirements, minimum carbon intensity reductions, and sustainability factors.
“The global maritime sector is pursuing sustainable maritime fuels,” Michael Berube, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy deputy assistant secretary for sustainable transportation and fuels, said. “The United States is well positioned to be a global leader in producing, distributing, and selling these sustainable fuels that can provide more affordable options to the market. This request for information will help align the industry around common definitions, enabling broader adoption across the economy.”
Responses must be submitted electronically on or before Feb. 28.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Transportation released the Action Plan for Maritime Energy and Emissions Innovation. The document defines actions to achieve an accessible, affordable, clean and safe U.S. maritime transportation system.