The journey to zero-emission shipping is complex, emerging through gradual changes in fuels and regulations, as discussed at Posidonia 2026. Key industry players, including energy firms and shipbuilders, participated in a panel that highlighted the financial and operational challenges faced by ship owners in choosing among fuel options like LNG and bio-LNG. Dr. Alexandra Ebbinghaus from Shell emphasized the risk versus reward of LNG, especially for Greek owners reliant on vessel resale value.
As the conversation shifted from energy transition to operational resilience, Claire Wright of Hanwha Ocean noted that energy-saving technologies are gaining traction among owners. She pointed out the importance of integrating digital solutions alongside alternative fuels, while acknowledging the ongoing development of ammonia, albeit with extended timelines. Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO of the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Centre, reflected on the rapid advancements in maritime decarbonization over the past five years, advocating for a stronger commitment to green technologies.
Finally, discussions on nuclear propulsion rose to prominence, with Baroness Charlotte Vere from Core Power suggesting that nations are investing in nuclear technology, which could benefit maritime applications in the future. While hurdles like regulatory frameworks and financing remain, there is a consensus on the industry’s commitment to a sustainable future, underscoring the critical decisions being made today.
