E-fuels can decarbonise shipping
The future of e-fuels – part one: Maritime shipping
Price of green ammonia could fall to challenge fuel oil as capex and renewable electricity costs come down
There are a number of e-fuels that could be synthesised from low-carbon hydrogen, but the ones widely expected to perform best in coming decades are the synthetic fuels best suited to decarbonise long-distance maritime shipping and aviation—e-ammonia and e-kerosene respectively. Despite their additional costs, these two e-fuels also are viewed as better options than the use of straight hydrogen in these sectors. This is because of their superior energy density and the high cost of storing liquefied hydrogen on vessels and aircraft. The first part of this two-part series explores the potential of e-ammonia for shipping through 2050 as well as the major barriers it must first overcome. Poten
Also in this section
4 February 2026
Europe’s largest electrolyser manufacturers are losing patience with policymakers as sluggish growth in the green hydrogen sector undermines their decision to expand production capacity
2 February 2026
As a fertiliser feedstock, it is indispensable, but ammonia’s potential as a carbon-free energy carrier is also making it central to global decarbonisation strategies
28 January 2026
The development of hydrogen’s distribution system must speed up if the industry is to stand any chance of grabbing a meaningful slice of the low-carbon energy market
14 January 2026
Continent’s governments must seize the green hydrogen opportunity by refining policies and ramping up the development of supply chains and infrastructure
