As the International Maritime Organization (IMO) moves closer to finalizing its Net Zero Framework, a new study is examining the effectiveness of continuous emissions measurement technology in regulating emissions. This research focuses on real-time monitoring aboard LNG vessels, contrasting it with the existing modeling methods used for emissions assessment. In 2023, the IMO implemented its Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating scheme as initial measures to reduce carbon intensity. The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) will convene at the end of November to draft the Net Zero Framework, which may soon be put to a vote.
Panos Mitrou, Senior Vice President of Shipping Strategy at Lloyd’s Register, highlighted that the industry currently relies on default emissions factors and test bed data for estimating environmental performance. The new initiative aims to provide stakeholders with a means to compare estimated emissions with direct measurements from vessels in real-world conditions, yielding insights that could enhance reporting accuracy and operational understanding for emissions reduction.
This joint development project will unify expertise from various sectors of the maritime industry to validate the accuracy and reliability of continuous emissions monitoring technologies for LNG-fueled vessels. Lloyd’s Register will serve as an independent verifier, collaborating with Seapeak, Kongsberg Maritime, and Tunable to enhance emissions compliance through onboard monitoring technology.
The project will analyze emissions data from a new LNG carrier set to be delivered in early 2027, with ongoing monitoring and analysis throughout the year. It will assess the performance of Kongsberg Maritime’s Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS), which utilizes Tunable’s gas analysis technology. By comparing actual CO2 emissions recorded by the CEMS with engine test bed data and default emissions factors, the partners aim to quantify discrepancies and evaluate the regulatory implications of direct CO2 measurements within the IMO and EU emissions reporting frameworks.
