Methodological framework for assessing the sustainability of electric passenger fleets: Application to the Egadi Archipelago

Francesco Balestrieri, Alessandro Brusasco, Matteo Melchiorre, Mauro Bonfanti and Stefano Mauro

Applied Energy, 2025, vol. 401, issue PB, No S0306261925014096

Abstract: Maritime transport is essential for island communities but remains highly dependent on fossil fuels, posing significant economic and environmental risks, especially in ecologically sensitive regions. This study introduces a novel and adaptable methodology for the preliminary assessment of passenger fleet electrification, using the Egadi Archipelago (Italy) as a case study. A generalisable parametric model was developed to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility and environmental impact of converting the current fast-ferry fleet to battery-electric, hybrid electric-hydrogen, or pure hydrogen propulsion systems. The model estimates energy consumption, emissions, capital investment, and operational costs across long-term planning horizons up to 2050. Findings indicate that electrification can achieve CO2 reductions of 28 % with gray hydrogen and up to 65 % with green hydrogen, alongside operational cost savings between 40 % and 58 % depending on the energy source considered. The analysis also highlights the substantial renewable energy potential within the archipelago, supporting the goal of zero-impact electric fleet operation. This work offers valuable insights for policymakers, naval architects, and operators in advancing sustainable maritime transport in island and coastal regions.

Keywords: Naval passenger transportation; Hydrofoil vessels; Electrification; Hydrogen propulsion; Parametric model; Emission reduction; Cost estimation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.126679

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