Energy Transition
The ECMAR vision for energy efficiency in clean and digital ships is centered on a holistic approach that integrates energy saving techniques, innovative propulsion systems, advanced digitalization, robust experimental methodologies, supportive regulatory frameworks, and comprehensive human factors considerations. Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainable maritime operations. As the global community intensifies its efforts to combat climate change, the maritime transport sector faces unique challenges and opportunities. Ships, which are integral to global trade and transportation, must transition to cleaner and more efficient energy systems. This transition involves not only the adoption of alternative fuels and green propulsion systems but also the integration of digital technologies that can optimize operations and reduce energy consumption. Reducing energy consumption not only lowers operational costs but also minimizes the environmental impact of shipping activities. Various strategies to enhance energy efficiency include the development of green propulsion systems, electrification, and the implementation of energy-efficient ship designs.
The following three technological priorities summarize ECMAR vision for enhancing energy efficiency in maritime transport, while embracing sustainability and digitalisation:
1. Sustainable Alternative Fuels: Emphasizing the integration and scalability of sustainable fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Electrification: Advancing battery technologies and the development of fully DC-powered ships to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on traditional fuels.
3. Energy-Saving Technologies: Prioritizing the development of technologies that reduce resistance and improve ship design, leading to lower fuel consumption and emissions.
All these innovations together are crucial for achieving the ambitious emissions reduction targets set by international regulatory bodies. Nevertheless, there is an apparent lack of developments specifically for energy saving and improved efficiency technologies (3.), as the focus has been currently put mainly on either sustainable alternative fuels (1.) or electrification (2.), which alone cannot solve the emission targets in the short or medium term. On the other hand, the most renown energy reports openly highlight that the amount of energy available from clean sources will be limited and that the costs will be very high. Challenges such as high initial investment, fuel availability, lack of infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles are more than evident. Addressing these aspects involves ensuring a reliable supply of alternative fuels to support the transition to greener energy sources and navigating the complex landscape of safety and environmental regulations to facilitate the implementation of new technologies.
Therefore, now that decarbonizing options have been put at the core of the majority of RDI efforts, the focus in the next years should lie on more cost-efficient saving technologies as well. These energy-saving technologies in turn should include also advanced and unconventional holistic approaches which will typically require lower TRL research.
ECMAR approaches are varied and are supported by many ideas for potential new topics at low TRL also in the field of energy efficiency. Moreover, ECMAR members are focusing on reducing added resistance in waves and developing novel propulsion systems that do not rely on chemical reactions. The importance of AI applications in systems engineering and integrated on-board monitoring to enhance energy efficiency is also emphasized. Additionally, the energy efficiency of ice-classed vessels in winter conditions is considered among the critical areas of maritime research, also considering the current geopolitical situation. Digitalization plays a pivotal role in the ship’s optimization for energy efficiency, especially at operational level. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devic es, sensors, and autonomous navigation systems enables real-time monitoring and optimization of ship operations. Digital twins, which are virtual replicas of physical ships, allow for advanced simulations and predictive maintenance, further enhancing operational efficiency. Technologies for improving renewable energy sources efficiency in maritime transport and systems for enhancing the resilience of maritime infrastructures are also essential. The clean energy transition includes new fuels, novel materials, and electrification, supported by Digital Twins, AI, and highly automated functions for energy management. The development and implementation of new energy-efficient technologies come with their own set of experimental challenges. Accurate modelling, simulation, and validation are essential to ensure the reliability and impact of these innovations. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools and advanced simulation systems are crucial for testing and refining new technologies. Further development of CFD tools, simulator-based training methods, and the need for more Research and Innovation Action calls for low Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) solutions are crucial. These methodologies support the transition from basic research to practical on-board applications, ensuring that new technologies are both effective and reliable in the short to medium term. The next FP10 should support research into advanced design methods that use AI and Computational Fluid Dynamics to create highly efficient ship designs. This includes supporting the development of tools that make it easier to explore many design options quickly and ensure that new or modified vessels are as energy efficient as possible within regulatory re quirements.
Importantly, improvements in the early phase of ship’s design often contribute to emission reductions without generating any amount of direct or indirect emissions, offering a valuable opportunity for environmental gains. This is particularly relevant not only for ships, but also for optimizing propellers, energy-saving devices, and other marine components, and should be considered a key priority alongside sustainable alternative energy solutions.