In September, India’s maritime sector made notable strides as the government advanced its Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. With 38 registered ship lessors managing 43 vessels, including 24 under the Indian flag, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted these developments at the India Ship Leasing Summit.
Chowgule and Company’s Shipbuilding Division has signed a contract with Green Maritime Infrastructure to construct two hydrogen-powered cargo vessels at its Goa shipyard. This project, unveiled at the SMM Hamburg 2026 event, underscores a commitment to sustainable shipping, utilizing hydrogen fuel-cell technology for enhanced environmental performance.
The IMO’s Net-Zero Framework stands firm after recent negotiations, despite pressure from the U.S. and oil-producing nations. With carbon pricing as a central point of contention, 38 nations support its retention, while 17 express concerns over economic impacts. The framework seeks to achieve net-zero shipping emissions by 2050.
Minister Sarbananda Sonowal conducted a review today on advancing green shipping corridors and ports’ readiness for alternative fuels. Emphasizing maritime decarbonization, he highlighted India’s commitment to becoming a leader in environmentally friendly trade routes. Officials reported progress on green fuel initiatives, underscoring the necessity for collaboration in achieving sustainability goals.
Cochin Shipyard Limited and Svitzer have commenced the construction of four advanced battery-electric tugs, representing a milestone in green maritime technology. This initiative, part of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030, aims to enhance domestic electric propulsion capabilities while promoting sustainability and operational efficiency in port operations, supporting zero emissions when powered by green sources.
In August 2026, orders for alternative-fueled ships surged, with 52 new vessels registered, including 46 LNG-powered ones. This marked the highest monthly total in nearly two years, reflecting an overall increase in alternative fuel adoption. Jason Stefanatos noted the industry’s shift towards diverse fuel options and growing decarbonization efforts.
Maersk, in collaboration with Anemoi, is pioneering wind-assisted propulsion on a smaller containership, marking the first use of a wind rotor on boxships. The 5-meter-diameter rotor sail aims to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. Scheduled for retrofitting in mid-2027, it will be installed on a Lima class vessel.
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.
At SMM 2026, GEA introduced its innovative methanol Fuel2Engine System, combining the methanol Booster Unit and Valve Train for efficient fuel supply management. Designed for new builds and retrofits, this system enhances integration into diverse ship designs, supporting the shipping industry’s transition to methanol amid evolving regulations and fuel availability.
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.
Everllence has successfully completed full-scale testing of its 12-cylinder 175DF-M dual-fuel methanol engine in Frederikshavn, Denmark. Achieving over 95% methanol efficiency, the engine’s low-pressure port-fuel-injection simplifies fuel supply and reduces costs. With initial commercial orders secured, Everllence is poised to support maritime decarbonization efforts.
DP World’s Marine Services division celebrated the naming of its first methanol dual-fuel vessel, DP World London, in Aarhus, Denmark. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable supply chains. The event united key stakeholders to honor maritime traditions while emphasizing innovation and adaptability in evolving global markets.
In August 2026, Manta Marine Technologies (MMT) and Foreship by RINA formed a partnership to advance air lubrication technology in the maritime sector. MMT will manage the Manta Air Lubrication system, enhancing energy efficiency for large vessels by reducing friction. This collaboration aims to support shipowners’ decarbonization efforts effectively.
Demonstrations are underway for an innovative power solution being retrofitted onto the ultramax bulker Maria Tipoc. Part of the WHISPER initiative, this project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport. It features a tiltable rigid wingsail and solar panels, marking a significant step towards sustainable shipping practices.
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.
