According to Cision , The United States Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Office of Environment and Innovation has selected the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to lead the establishment and maintenance of the U.S. Center for Maritime Innovation. This initiative, authorized by the U.S. Congress, aims to accelerate the adoption of clean energy within the U.S. maritime industry through a comprehensive program of research, development, and training. The center will operate under a five-year cooperative agreement between ABS and MARAD.
A Key National Resource for Maritime Transformation
ABS Chairman and CEO, Christopher Wiernicki, emphasized the significance of the center in helping the U.S. maritime industry adapt to the fast-evolving demands of decarbonization and digitalization. He noted that ABS is honored to partner with MARAD in the creation and operation of the center, which will play a crucial role in researching, developing, and implementing innovative maritime technologies and solutions, particularly in response to emerging environmental challenges.
ABS’s Strategic Role
With its deep experience as a U.S.-based marine classification, certification, and research organization, ABS is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. The organization’s extensive network of research partners and relationships in the maritime industry further strengthens its capacity to drive advancements in clean energy adoption and technological innovation within the sector.
Objectives of the Center for Maritime Innovation
The U.S. Center for Maritime Innovation will focus on supporting the development of infrastructure to enable the deployment of clean energy solutions across U.S. vessels. It will also work to identify gaps in research related to emerging marine technologies, specific to the U.S. maritime industry. The center will conduct research, testing, and evaluation of new technologies while offering guidance on the best available solutions for the maritime sector.
In addition, the center will assess and monitor the U.S. industry’s knowledge of emerging technologies, assist with navigating complex regulatory frameworks, and document best practices for sustainable maritime operations. It will also collaborate with academic institutions and private sector training organizations to develop strategies that address the needs of the U.S. inland, coastal, and deep-water fleets.
Next Steps in the Initiative
Over the coming months, ABS and MARAD will work together to establish the center’s operational framework, including forming working groups and setting research priorities. These efforts will involve active engagement with stakeholders from across the maritime industry to ensure broad-based input and collaboration on the center’s projects and initiatives.
Conclusion
The establishment of the U.S. Center for Maritime Innovation marks a significant step toward promoting clean energy solutions and advancing technological innovation within the U.S. maritime industry. Through this collaboration between ABS and MARAD, the center will help drive the transformation needed to meet the environmental and regulatory challenges facing the marine transportation system.
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Source: Cision
