Maritime transportation is vital to the Faroe Islands, but it faces challenges in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Green Sea Faroe project aims to steer this sector towards a sustainable future, reducing GHG emissions and ensuring that the region’s economic growth aligns with environmental preservation. The project will assess the latest technologies in ‘green’ propulsion, focusing on hydrogen, ammonia, biofuels, and electric power, seeking suitable solutions for local sea conditions and the needs of small vessels.

To achieve these goals, a systematic literature review will be conducted to understand the current state of sustainable marine propulsion. Subsequently, the project will investigate the environmental, economic, and societal aspects of potential technologies. The central part of the project involves designing two passenger ferries that can showcase practical, clean-energy systems informed by findings, local ship operation requirements, and insights from experienced ship designers. Moreover, Green Sea Faroe will investigate energy usage data to forecast future needs, thus helping shape the necessary infrastructure for maritime decarbonisation.  

The Mykines island, Faroe Islands. Photo credit: Johann Ragnarsson/AdobeStock

Results from previous research tasks will be formulated into a pathway to achieve “net-zero” shipping emissions in the Faroe Islands. This approach transcends technical analysis, as dialogues with stakeholders will be held to tailor a decarbonisation strategy that fits local socio-economic realities. The research conducted in this project will be beneficial not only to the Faroe Islands but also to Nordic nations and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), contributing to overcoming a global environmental challenge.