Onboard renewable energy solutions and energy saving measures to reduce the fuel consumption of ships by at least 55% (ZEWT Partnership)

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Expected Outcome: Project’s results are expected to contribute to the following expected outcomes: Full-scale demonstration of the combined solutions aiming to reduce ship GHG intensity and energy savings by at least 55%, compared to 2008 levels. Development of a standardized framework to verify improvements stemming from energy efficiency measures and standardized interfacing with certification of renewable energy solutions to strengthen the implementation of FuelEU Maritime. Explore and establish assessment criteria, and sea-trial procedures for the combination of solutions. Adapt digital solutions towards standardised interface layers (hardware and software) to introduce data-driven optimisation and seamless integration. Facilitate the retrofitting of existing vessels with zero emission energy sources in combination with energy efficiency measures up to 2030. Address the safety and operational impacts on ships, ports and other land infrastructure, as well as training gaps in terms of skills and competencies necessary for the adoption and operation of these technologies onboard ships. Strengthen market confidence in the integration of technologies and ensure sustainability and continuation of project outputs, including the integrated technologies. Address possible trade-offs with air and water pollution (unintended higher NOx or Black Carbon, ammonia dispersion, etc.) linked to decarbonization (technologies and fuels). Scope: One of the key areas in the waterborne transport domain aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and subsequently reducing emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG) and air pollutants is the exploration, implementation, and assessment of renewable energy solutions and energy-saving measures. To this end, numerous advancements (e.g., electric and hybrid propulsion systems, wind-assisted propulsion technologies, hull optimization, air lubrication systems etc.) have been made across various aspects of ships. However, a high energy-efficient vessel requires addressing specific challenges despite the significant technological advancements. One of the most critical factors relates to the combination and integration of different solutions and measures that may lead to additional energy savings concerning multiple ship elements such as energy conversion, propulsion, onboard energy consumer demands (e.g., hotel loads for passenger vessels, operation equipment for offshore vessels etc.), higher-efficiency conventional or alternative power systems and others without compromising the ship’s safety and performance. Adaptability across different ship types and scalability, particularly for large vessels, are further challenges that require meticulous analysis. The shift towards zero emission entails significant investment costs, especially for small and medium-sized shipping companies, and consideration of financial viability is of paramount importance. Lastly, the absence of a concrete standardization framework poses a substantial barrier that…