Advancing maritime renewable energy through hydrogen and alternative fuel generation

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Maritime Energy solutions (N0MES) has a 4-year funded PhD place available for an exceptional researcher. With the support of the University of Liverpool (UoL), Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and 33 maritime energy sector partners, N0MES PGRs will pursue new, engineering-centred, interdisciplinary research to address four vital net zero challenges currently facing the North West, the UK and beyond:

a) Energy generation using maritime-based renewable energy (e.g. offshore wind, tidal, wave, floating solar, hydrogen, CCS);

b) Distributing energy from offshore to onshore, including port- and hinterland-side impacts and opportunities;

c) Addressing the short- and long-term environmental impacts of offshore and maritime

environment renewable energy generation, distribution and storage; and

d) Decommissioning and lifetime extension of existing energy and facilities.

Renewable energy is at the forefront of global initiatives for sustainable development. This PhD opportunity seeks to address specific challenges and opportunities inherent in harnessing maritime-based renewable energy, with a specific focus on advancing the generation of hydrogen and other alternative fuels (e.g., e-fuels). The overarching aim is to contribute to the sustainable energy transition by developing innovative solutions for energy generation and infrastructure development in maritime environments.

Research pathways:

1. Hydrogen and/or E-fuels Production and Utilisation: Investigate current and novel methods for cost-effective hydrogen and/or e-fuels production from renewable sources, such as electrolysis powered by offshore wind or wave energy. Explore the integration of CCS (carbon capture and storage) and/or hydrogen fuel cells in maritime vessels and offshore platforms to reduce life cycle emissions and increase energy efficiency.

2. Infrastructure Development: Assess the feasibility and design considerations for integrating renewable energy systems into existing maritime infrastructure, including offshore platforms, ports, and coastal facilities. Innovative solutions for site selection of offshore energy generation and transmission will be explored, to overcome logistical challenges and maximise energy capture. Explore the risks associated with the establishment and operation of infrastructure for alternative fuels such as hydrogen and e-fuels in maritime ports and coastal regions, potentially including the development of risk management strategies to enhance resilience and ensure the continuity of power/fuel supply. 

3. Environmental Impact and Life Cycle Analysis: Evaluate the environmental impact and life cycle emissions associated with the adoption of renewable energy technologies in maritime operations. This involves life cycle assessment, techno-economic modelling, and environmental risk assessments to inform decision-making and policy development.

Overall, the project can employ innovative data analysis, techno-economic modelling, life cycle assessment, risk assessment, and decision-making science methodologies to tackle elements of the above pathways, to develop fresh perspectives and avenues for safe, resilient, and environmentally efficient alternative fuel power generation from renewable sources.