3 innovations that enhance sustainability in marine and offshore

The marine and offshore industry is rapidly evolving in terms of sustainability. During the last couple of years, there have been many innovations that reduces the carbon footprint of ships. In this blog, we share three examples that contribute to a healthier planet and a sustainable journey at sea.

Alternate use of fuels

Alternative fuels can contribute to sustainability. At Marpower, we are involved in innovations such as hydrogen. On our ships, wind energy is also applied, either functioning as sails or providing electrical energy. Nuclear energy will most likely play a role on large container ships and possibly cruise ships.

The choices for the most suitable type of energy generation depend on the design and sailing profile. It is common to combine various small and highly efficient diesel generators with sails, energy storage in - for example - flow batteries, and fuel cells.

Fuel savings is one of the many innovations in which sustainability in the offshore industry plays an important role. One of them is the usage of alternative fuels, with LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) as a prime example. This kind of fuel is made out of organic materials, such as plant-based remains and manure.

LNG is produced by cooling natural gas and turning it into a liquid. This reduces its volume, and then gets stored in special tanks. Once the fuel is used in practice, the LNG will be converted back into gas form and burned in the ship’s engines.

The main benefit is the reduction of its carbon footprint. Compared to Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO), this results in a 20% emissions reduction. Substances like sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter will be used much less, which results in a cleaner maritime industry.

Energy efficiency

When it comes to sustainability in the marine and offshore industry, innovation in energy efficiency is key. It allows you to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. This can be achieved by sailing the most efficient routes, but there are many more ways to achieve energy efficiency.

Marpower contributions in these kinds of innovations. Our energy management system gets used on board thanks to the usage and the need for available energy. By using this kind of energy as efficiently as possible.

This has one important condition. The ship installation needs to be electrified. This allows for better control and management of the energy sources. By not relying on traditional sources, you can reduce emissions, save costs and be more energy efficient.

Electrification of ships

Implementing completely electric or hybrid propulsion systems is essential if you want to reduce the usage of fossil fuels. Marpower contributes to this with our Modular Propulsion Platform (MPP).

The MPP connects all energy sources and energy storages to a DC platform, in combination with a reliable and proven energy management system the energy is reduced to an absolute minimum. You can read more about this matter here.

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