Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has agreed a deal to introduce the Wayfinder voyage optimisation platform developed by Sofar Ocean to its operating vessels, aiming to reduce emissions by improving fuel efficiency.
Wayfinder provides optimal speed and route recommendations leveraging real-time weather forecasts based on information from Sofar’s global network of Spotter buoy ocean sensors, which collect data such as wave spectra, wind, sea surface temperature, and atmospheric pressure.
Fuel efficiency impacts are calculated using a data-driven model, incorporating market and safety conditions.
A trial on 40 of MOL’s vessels demonstrated an average fuel/GHG emission reduction of about 6% per voyage, leading to the shipping company’s decision to begin introducing the technology on the rest of the fleet.
MOL aims to achieve net zero GHG emissions by 2050 and reduce GHG emissions intensity by 45% by 2035 (versus 2019).
