Marubeni Corporation has announced the results of a joint study with classification society ClassNK and its software subsidiary NAPA, measuring the impact of voyage optimisation on the greenhouse gas emissions and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings of a real-life fleet.
The research found that a vessel’s fuel consumption and CO2 emissions could be reduced by up to 7.3% by using software, and that voyage optimisation can improve a vessel’s CII by an average of 5-6%, enabling ships to maintain their ratings for an additional two to three years.
The joint research was carried out using NAPA’s ship performance model and voyage simulation tools, incorporating data on all voyages, weather and ocean conditions in 2021 for a group of bulk carriers owned and operated by Marubeni.
The potential reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions were measured by “retro-optimising” each voyage to incorporate weather routing, using the data on weather and sea conditions that was available at the time and maintaining the same departure and arrival times.
ClassNK verified the calculated values and confirmed the results, while Marubeni provided the vessels for the demonstration tests, as well as its experience and expertise on operations.
“We are proud to partner with NAPA and ClassNK on this unique study, which provides greater clarity for the entire maritime industry on how we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint through digital solutions that make our operations smarter and more efficient,” said Takayuki Hase, General Manager of Ship Department at Marubeni.
“As we navigate a new regulatory environment, data-driven insights are key to accurately assess our starting point and fully understand the practical impacts. Based on cooperation and collaboration with industrial leading companies, we aim to contribute greener, more sustainable shipping though all practical methods.”
