A recent project by the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center focused on converting Kamsarmax bulk carriers to dual-fuel methanol operations. The project aimed to assess the feasibility of retrofitting fuel oil-powered vessels to run on methanol, with Approval in Principle from Japan’s ClassNK. It highlights the potential for low-emission solutions in the maritime industry.
Shipowners are seeking ways to extend vessel life while meeting IMO decarbonization goals. Lomar Shipping’s lomarlabs is collaborating with Newlight to create hydrogen retrofits for ships, allowing diesel engines to use a hydrogen blend. This innovative approach could cut fuel use by up to 30%, with pilot installations set for summer 2025.
MAN Energy Solutions has successfully completed the retrofit of the main engine of the Very Large Container Vessel ‘Maersk Halifax’ to a dual-fuel MAN B&W ME-LGIM unit. This project, carried out by MAN PrimeServ, marks the first of its kind globally for a VLCV. The vessel was originally powered by an MAN B&W 8G95ME-C9.5.
Japan’s NYK Group has installed its first suction sails on the NBA Magritte, a bulk carrier chartered by Cargill. Developed by Econowind, these sails aim to reduce vessel emissions by creating additional propulsion force through a suction port. The trial will assess the effectiveness of wind-assisted propulsion, aligning with the industry’s shift towards sustainable shipping methods.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is expanding its use of wind-assisted propulsion for decarbonization efforts. They are testing new technologies and plan to retrofit their first bulker with the Wind Challenger rigid sail. With strong industry interest, MOL aims to launch 25 vessels with wind propulsion by 2030 and expects installations to continue growing.
The largest conversion project of conventional RoRo ferries into plug-in hybrid ferries is set to begin in the second half of 2025. Scandlines in Denmark, partnering with Wärtsilä, will convert two 27-year-old vessels to hybrid operations, enabling them to conduct 80 percent of their voyages by battery power.
A groundbreaking project in the UK will transform a crew transfer vessel into the world’s first retrofitted Electric Crew Transfer Vessel (E-CTV). The vessel, currently known as the Ginny Louise, will operate entirely on electric power, with new propulsion systems and advanced technology for safer, faster, and emissions-free transfers.
A Chinese shipyard successfully retrofitted a carbon capture system on a large containership, the Ever Top. The system, developed by Qiyao Environmental Protection, can capture and separate CO2 in the ship’s exhaust with a high efficiency rate. This technology could extend the life of vessels by cleaning engine exhaust and reducing emissions.
