Authorities in Denmark have greenlit the world’s first test program for “remote pilotage,” allowing ships to be guided without an onboard pilot. This innovative system, developed by Danelec in collaboration with DanPilot, enhances safety, reduces fuel consumption, and maintains navigational safety, marking a significant advancement in maritime technology.
Global chemical tanker operator Odfjell is now using wind-assisted propulsion to reduce emissions. Their first sail installation on the Bow Olympus in Antwerp is being closely monitored for its impact on operations. VP Technology Erik Hjortland stressed the importance of real-time analysis. Odfjell plans to install more sails after validating results.
The UK government has launched tests for injecting CO2 into depleted wells under the North Sea, supporting carbon capture projects. Carbon Catalyst, a UK company, partnered with Perenco UK for the initial test at Project Poseidon. Wintershall Dea also joined, acquiring a 10% interest. The project aims to become one of the largest in Northwest Europe.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is leading a demonstration of autonomous operations on a large containership as part of a government-sponsored program. Equipped with specially designed systems, the vessel is showcasing autonomous collision avoidance and remote control capabilities. The initiative aims to advance technology development and establish international standards for autonomous shipping.
In a pioneering pilot project at the Steinweg Beatrix Terminal in Rotterdam, Cargow ships were connected to moveable battery containers for shore power. The initiative, testing feasibility when standard connections are unavailable due to grid limitations, indicated success. Despite higher costs, the technology will be used in areas without electricity access.
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.
A six-month trial is underway to study the cost and impact of long-term continuous use of biofuels on large vessels. Japan’s NYK is partnering with the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonization to support biofuel adoption in the shipping industry. The trial will evaluate challenges like corrosion and maintenance costs to establish industry guidelines.
Holland America Line’s flagship cruise ship, Rotterdam, is testing 100 percent low carbon intensity biofuel in Norwegian fjords. Carnival Corporation’s series of tests with biofuels on Holland America and AIDA ships is a step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry. The success of these tests is paving the way for more sustainable practices in cruising.
Interest in methanol-fueled ships is growing, but a fire safety study by Survitec reveals existing methods are not equipped for methanol fires. Traditional water mist systems are ineffective on methanol fires due to their aggressive nature and different properties. Retrofitting existing vessels for methanol would require a complete overhaul of fire-fighting arrangements.
The world’s first bunkering of ammonia and engine tests took place in Singapore on the Fortescue Green Pioneer, a retrofitted offshore supply vessel. The vessel, originally the MMA Leveque, was acquired by Fortescue Future Industries in 2022. The tests aim to develop safety protocols for using ammonia as a marine fuel.
Cargill Ocean Transportation is seeing positive results from testing wind-assisted propulsion on a Kamsarmax bulker. The Pyxis Ocean completed three voyages, achieving fuel savings and emissions reductions. The technology, developed with BAR Technologies, has shown promising results, with plans to scale up across the fleet. Cargill continues to explore decarbonization efforts in maritime operations.
South Korea launched a new containership for Level 3 autonomous shipping, aiming to lead in the development of autonomous vessels. The vessel, named Pos Singapore, is 564 feet long with a capacity of 1,800 TEU. The government has invested over $120 million in research and development for this technology, with plans for international demonstrations later this year.
Researchers are reporting promising results in the first phase of a two-stage test of carbon capture in the maritime sector. The EverLoNG project, involving industry leaders and government funding, completed a major milestone with the first deployment of a prototype system on the LNG carrier Seapeak Arwa. The project aims to optimize shipboard carbon capture.
