Kongsberg Maritime has launched the WINTEGRATE project, partnering with leading Norwegian maritime firms and research institutions to enhance wind propulsion in commercial shipping. Funded by Norway’s Green Platform program, the initiative aims to integrate Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems with existing technology, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions for new and retrofitted vessels.
India aspires to rank among the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047, increasing its capacity to 4.5 million gross tonnes. At the SMM Hamburg event, Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar outlined a strategy that includes a €7 billion support package and emphasizes sustainability and collaboration with European maritime companies for innovative green shipping solutions.
At the International Maritime Organization gathering, the Secretary-General reaffirmed that decarbonisation remains a critical priority, despite diminished media attention. He urged early investment in green technologies, warning that failing to act could jeopardize the industry’s future. Emphasizing collaboration, he called for proactive involvement from younger professionals in shaping sustainable shipping policies.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) is enhancing its global presence by opening a new office in Hamburg, Germany. This strategic move aims to foster connections with European maritime stakeholders, promoting collaboration in shipbuilding and technology. IRS seeks to strengthen ties and facilitate access to India’s growing maritime sector.
A successful methanol bunkering demonstration was conducted with the cruise ship Mein Schiff 7, the first methanol-ready vessel. This operation, involving 25 cubic meters of renewable methanol, showcased the feasibility of integrating lower-carbon fuels in the cruise industry, highlighting TUI Cruises’ commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction strategies.
Singapore and Brazil have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the Singapore-Brazil Green and Digital Shipping Corridor. This collaboration aims to harness Brazil’s renewable energy for zero-emission marine fuels and leverage Singapore’s position as a global maritime hub, enhancing sustainability and efficiency through innovative technologies and information exchanges.
A recent UK government report warns that Britain’s ports will need significantly more electricity in the coming decades to support shore power, vessel charging, and alternative fuels. Delays in securing grid connections and rising energy costs may hinder the maritime sector’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
GAIL (India) Limited, the Deendayal Port Authority, and DNV have formed a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement to establish an LNG bunkering facility at Kandla Port. This collaboration combines LNG expertise, strategic port infrastructure, and maritime safety knowledge, significantly enhancing LNG capabilities and promoting cleaner marine fuels in line with India’s sustainability goals.
The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) hosted the Kandla Green Hydrogen Conclave 2026 in Gandhidham, Gujarat, gathering global leaders to discuss sustainable maritime practices. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal addressed participants virtually, while DPA Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh highlighted the maritime sector’s role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement.
Danish operator Baltic Shipping Company has expanded its fleet with two Damen-built hybrid coasters, Baltic Iron and Baltic Timber. Each vessel features Econowind VentoFoils, enhancing propulsion and reducing fuel consumption by up to 12%. This innovation reflects a commitment to energy-efficient shipping and meeting customer demands for lower carbon footprints.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has successfully delivered the MS Maria, the second vessel in the HS EcoFreighter series for German shipping firm HS Schiffahrts. Designed by Groot Ship Design, the 7000 DWT vessel boasts a hydrodynamic profile, catering to diverse cargo needs and enhancing CSL’s capability in constructing eco-friendly ships.
HD Hyundai Samho has successfully delivered its first Very Large Ammonia Carrier, the 93,000-cubic-meter Jane Maersk, to Maersk Shipping. This marks the beginning of a series of five VLACs ordered in November 2023, reflecting the rising demand for vessels dedicated to transporting low-carbon fuels like ammonia.
Green shipping initiatives are rapidly advancing in India’s maritime sector, with orders for methanol, ammonia, and electric vessels on the rise. Indian ports are enhancing infrastructure to position themselves as green hydrogen hubs. A recent brief highlights both opportunities and challenges, urging stakeholders to strengthen policies and collaborations for sustainable growth.
The A.P. Moller Foundation’s Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping has cut its workforce by 30% amid uncertainties in the shipping industry’s green transition. Despite this, CEO Bo Cerup-Simonsen reassures that the Center will adapt, focusing on energy efficiency, low-carbon research, and regulatory support, with 18 core sponsors still committed.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is enhancing its wind-assisted propulsion initiative with the “Wind Challenger” system, developed in collaboration with Oshima Shipbuilding. This rigid sail adjusts to real-time wind conditions, aiming to reduce GHG emissions. MOL plans to retrofit 25 vessels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
