Physics-Based Energy - Carrier Analysis - Methanol, LPG, and Methane in the Energy and Maritime Context

Physics-Based Energy Carrier Analysis: Methanol, LPG, and Methane in the Energy and Maritime Context

This study provides a physics-based and system-level assessment of methanol, LPG, LNG, methane, and related hydrocarbon pathways within the context of maritime decarbonization, Power-to-X (PtX), and future energy infrastructure. The analysis distinguishes explicitly between logistical convenience and physical superiority — a distinction often blurred in public and policy debates.

Using thermodynamic data, combustion enthalpies, energy-density comparisons, and complete energy-chain assessments, the study demonstrates that methanol is not a physically superior energy carrier, but primarily a logistical and regulatory compromise. While methanol benefits from liquid handling, existing port infrastructure, and increasing regulatory support in shipping, its production via electrolysis and synthesis pathways introduces substantial conversion losses compared to direct hydrocarbon utilization.

The report compares complete system pathways including:

• LNG,

• LPG,

• methane,

• compressed natural gas (CNG),

• fossil methanol,

• and e-methanol.

Special focus is placed on:

• volumetric and gravimetric energy density,

• conversion efficiency,

• infrastructure complexity,

• maritime applicability,

• hydrogen carrier concepts,

• methane pyrolysis,

• and seasonal renewable electricity availability.

A central contribution of the study is the integration of seasonal renewable energy constraints into PtX evaluation. Using Ember Climate electricity data, the analysis argues that Northern European winter conditions create a structural challenge for continuous “green” hydrogen and e-methanol production, due to prolonged low solar output and recurring wind deficits.

The study concludes that methanol is rational in specific transitional and import-oriented applications, particularly where liquid-fuel handling and regulatory compatibility dominate. However, from a thermodynamic and system-efficiency perspective, direct hydrocarbon pathways — especially methane, LNG, and LPG — remain significantly more efficient in many applications.

The report ultimately argues that future energy systems should be evaluated not primarily through political narratives or fuel branding, but through physical system architecture, conversion efficiency, infrastructure realism, and seasonal energy availability.