Liquefied natural gas as a strategic vector for ship energy modernisation

The relevance of the study is conditioned by the need to reduce emissions of harmful substances in navigation, compliance with international environmental standards, and the search for cost-effective solutions for fuel supply to the fleet. The purpose of the study was to analyse the technological, environmental, and economic aspects of the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the marine energy sector to assess its efficiency and implementation prospects. As a result of the study, it was found that the use of LNG in marine energy is an effective solution for reducing environmental impacts and meeting international environmental standards. LNG can significantly reduce emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2 ), nitrogen oxides (NOx ) and sulphur oxides (SOx ), which makes it a competitive fuel for vessels operating in emission control zones. Technologically, LNG provides high energy efficiency, in particular, through the use of dual-fuel engines, which allow optimising fuel costs and reducing the negative impact on the environment. Modern marine power plants equipped with cryogenic gas storage and supply systems confirm the effectiveness of LNG in ensuring stable operation of vessels. Economic studies have shown that while the transition to LNG requires significant initial investment in ship refurbishment and infrastructure, in the long run, it can reduce operating costs and the cost of environmental measures, such as installations to reduce sulphur emissions. The practical significance of the study lies in the fact that it contributes to the development of theoretical and practical foundations for the use of LNG as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective fuel in the marine energy sector, which can be used to improve existing technologies and regulations in the field of navigation