Norwegian maritime technology company NAVTOR is determined to reduce the energy consumption, emissions, and operational expenses (OPEX) of bulk fleets. Partnering with key industry players in the GASS (Green AI for Sustainable Shipping) project, NAVTOR is leveraging machine learning to push the maritime sector towards ambitious environmental goals.
Urgency for Decarbonization
Bjørn Åge Hjøllo, Chief Sustainability Officer at NAVTOR, emphasizes the urgency of addressing shipping’s lag in achieving the goal of halving greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030. He argues that immediate improvements in energy efficiency can significantly reduce the industry’s CO2 emissions.
The GASS Project Overview
GASS is a three-year research initiative, funded by the Norwegian Government, aimed at the data-driven decarbonization of the shipping industry. By improving data capture, analysis, and utilization, the project targets a 20% reduction in vessel energy consumption.
Key Collaborations and Funding
Led by NAVTOR, the project involves partners such as Grieg Star, Maritime CleanTech, ScanReach, Simula Research Laboratory, SinOceanic Shipping, and Sustainable Energy/SIVA. With over US$4 million in funding from the Norwegian Research Council, Innovation Norway, and SIVA, the project is well-supported for its development and testing phases.
Digital Twin Technology and Data Integration
The project involves creating digital twins of vessels using granular data from various sources, including MetOcean conditions, AIS data, and real-time sensor data. These virtual models will enable real-time fuel consumption optimization, allowing operators to address inefficiencies promptly.
Regulatory Compliance and Industry Trends
The evolving regulatory landscape, including IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), the EU’s Emission Trading System (ETS), and the upcoming FuelEU Maritime regulations, necessitates proactive measures for compliance. NAVTOR’s smart shipping solutions are designed to help companies stay ahead of these regulatory demands.
Future Implications and Benefits
With NAVTOR serving over 18,000 vessels, the potential impact of the GASS project is substantial. Achieving a 20% reduction in GHG emissions across one-third of the world fleet could result in a 5% reduction for the entire shipping industry, equating to over 60 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year.
NAVTOR’s cyber-secure ecosystem and the industry expertise of its partners underscore the positive potential of the GASS project. As the project progresses, it promises to deliver significant environmental and economic benefits, positioning the maritime industry for a sustainable future.
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Source: Dry Cargo International
