News items selected for weekly newsletter
A groundbreaking project between Turkish Tersan shipyard and Norwegian ferry operator Fjord1 will produce four zero-emission, autonomous ferries powered by SCHOTTEL EcoPellers. These vessels, designed by HAV Design, prioritize sustainability and passenger comfort. With plans to improve connectivity by 2026, the project signifies a significant advancement in maritime transportation in Norway.
Anthony Veder, a leading gas carrier operator, has successfully installed wind-assisted propulsion on an LPG gas carrier, signaling a growing interest in sustainable technology within the industry. With plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035, the company’s collaboration with Econowind to use VentoFoils on their vessels is a significant step towards enhancing operational efficiency.
India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the biennium 2024-25, showcasing its dedication to enhancing international maritime operations. With the highest number of votes, India aims to increase its representation at IMO and strengthen its influence in global maritime affairs. The council oversees IMO’s work under the assembly’s authority.
ClassNK has awarded its ‘AFVC(FD)(EV)’ notation to Positive Challenger, a car carrier equipped with advanced firefighting measures for transporting electric vehicles. The vessel stands out for its AI cameras detecting anomalies like smoke, heat, and rapid temperature rise, ensuring early fire detection. This innovation reflects the industry’s commitment to safety in EV transportation.
The Indian government is considering using its own funds to establish a P&I entity for insuring cargo vessels. Private insurers are expected to contribute later. Discussions are ongoing with stakeholders, aiming to cover coastal and riverine vessels initially. The plan involves international partnerships, a fixed premium framework, and involving global players for reinsurance management.
The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reported a decrease in piracy incidents from January to September 2024, with only 79 incidents compared to 99 in the same period last year. Most incidents occurred at night, with perpetrators armed in 45 reported incidents. Despite this decline, violence towards crew members remains a significant concern.
Hyundai Heavy Industries has achieved a major breakthrough in developing ammonia-fueled engines with a unique high-pressure injection method. The engine has passed model testing and is ready for commercialization, featuring a high-pressure direct injection method. This advancement aligns with the industry’s shift towards eco-friendly fuels, with other companies also making strides in ammonia technology.
Seafarers in the UK will soon benefit from new legislation aimed at protecting them from exploitative employers. The Employment Rights Bill will introduce measures to prevent incidents like the P&O Ferries scandal, ensuring fair treatment and job security for seafarers. These changes are part of the government’s commitment to improving working conditions in the maritime sector.
The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the creation of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat. The project will be executed in two phases, with Phase 1B and Phase 2 receiving initial approval. Funding for the LightHouse Museum in Phase 1B will be provided by the DGLL.
Starting April 1, 2025, marine fuel suppliers in Singapore must offer digital bunkering services and issue electronic bunker delivery notes. This initiative aims to streamline the bunkering process, save 40,000 man-days per year, and reduce fraud risk. Singapore leads the way in digital bunkering, enhancing efficiency and transparency in the industry.
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) has launched a test engine facility in Chiba Prefecture to evaluate new fuels’ safety. By utilizing their own test engine for stress testing, NYK aims to shorten the testing process and reduce costs. This move aligns with their commitment to exploring alternative fuel sources.
Regulators and shipping experts will gather in Rotterdam this November to discuss redesigning shipping containers to prevent invasive pest contamination. The conference, hosted by IPPC, will focus on eliminating spaces where pests could gather during voyages. Participants will explore design changes and treatments to minimize risks, emphasizing ‘Custodial Responsibility’ to prevent pest spread in global trade.
The shipping industry is shifting towards LNG as a fuel source, with 2% of the global fleet now powered by LNG, projected to increase to 4% or 6% based on current orders. The growth has been significant, from 21 ships in 2010 to 590 in operation worldwide, with 564 more on order by 2028.
At the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announced a $25 million investment to create hydrogen hubs at key Indian ports, enhancing the nation’s green shipping efforts. This initiative is part of India’s broader National Green Hydrogen Mission, aiming for significant decarbonization of the marine industry and sustainable shipbuilding advancements.
Gasum, a Nordic energy company, has partnered with Wasaline to create a commercial FuelEU Maritime pooling service. This initiative aims to help conventional fuel vessels save on compliance costs as the FuelEU Maritime regulation comes into effect in January 2025. The regulation targets ships over 5,000 gross tonnage.
