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Energy Efficient Operations News

26 Apr 2019

Maritime Autonomy: The Reality

Real world support on the bridge of one of the world’s most advanced cable layers still requires the personal touch from time to time.  ABB Marine Service is able to tap into remote data in order to prepare accurately in terms of appropriate skill sets needed onboard as well anticipating necessary parts & tools. Photo: ABB

While merriam-webster.com is succinct in its definition of ‘autonomous’, ask 10 people in the maritime sector what ‘autonomous’ vessel means to them and the responses vary widely. Achieving autonomous, unmanned operations is not high, today, on the agenda of many (if any) shipowners. What does command their attention? Building ships that are increasingly ‘smart,’ with integrated, connected systems that take on additional decision-making processes while helping to reduce crew size (and cost)…

09 Mar 2017

Digital Tech Turning Around Marine Prospects in Uncertain Waters

Digital solutions help to de-risk decisions, bring practical, actionable insights into vessel and fleet performance and provide proven opportunities to optimize operations in a sustainable way. (Image: GE Marine)

The start of every year calls for time to reflect on the last. The offshore and marine industry can look back on 2016 as one of the most bruising in recent memory. The downturn has been tough and drawn out, with increased divestment, more stringent environmental regulations and a prolonged shipbuilding cycle that has resulted in overcapacity. However, challenges can be harnessed as a force for progress. The downcycle has pushed the industry to reshape its competitive landscape, probably a change that has been overdue.

02 Dec 2015

EU Needs IMO Leadership to Reduce Shipping Emissions

The European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA) has reiterated their support for International Maritime Organisation (IMO) as the proper leader of efforts to reduce shipping’ s greenhouse gas emissions at the start of the COP 21 Climate Change Conference in Paris. “We fully support the idea that shipping has to contribute to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions” commented Patrick Verhoeven, ECSA Secretary General, adding: “EU Member States gave a vote of confidence to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in its ability to address as soon as possible and in an effective manner greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. We believe this is the right approach as it would be the logical continuation of steps already taken at EU level.

16 Sep 2015

Pilot Projects Chosen for Norway’s Green Shipping Program

The first pilot project, CargoFerry Plug-in Hybrid, aims to develop a cost-effective and profitable short-sea container ship that is powered by a plug-in hybrid LNG/battery propulsion system. (Image: DNV GL)

Five pilot projects have been cohsen to be pursued as part of Norway’s Green Coastal Shipping Program aiming to encourage research and implementation of green technology concepts in the country’s shipping sector. The pilot projects, presented by DNV GL and 25 partners from the Norwegian maritime industry and the Norwegian authorities, include several different ship types, and infrastructure with an emphasis on alternative fuel concepts. "When we launched the Green Coastal Shipping Program, we said we wanted to make Norway a world showcase for green coastal shipping.

12 Nov 2014

HVAC Systems: The Stealthy Drain on Energy Efficiency

The utiliVisor control center.

“Set it and forget it” may work well for rotisserie cookers, but that approach can be disastrous for shipboard HVAC systems. It’s not uncommon to find that the last time an HVAC system’s settings were checked on board is when it is was first set – upon installation. Typically, claims energy advisory firm utiliVisor, the ships’ engineers set the parameters and then go on their merry way. “A lot of marine companies mostly look at engine and generator performance, but no one is taking a look at chilled water…

05 Dec 2012

Polarcus Fleet Certified DNV Top Environmental Rating

DNV Award Polarcus Cerificate: Photo credit Polarcus

Polarcus receive the world’s first-ever DNV Level 1 Triple-E™ rating for its fleet of sesimic survey vessels. Triple-E™ is a voluntary environmental rating scheme for ships with a rating from Level 4 to Level 1, where 1 is the highest. To achieve Level 1, all levels must be complied with and there are areas of compliance within management, operation and design. The rating is based on a verification of a ship’s actual energy efficiency and environmental performance, carried out by an independent third party.