Computer-based model to appraise the technical and operational energy efficiency measures for ships

A variety of commercially viable emission-reduction solutions for sustainable shipping exist, with energy savings being far greater than the upfront capital costs. For example, propeller polishing, water flow optimization and hull cleaning each offer energy savings that potentially far outweigh their upfront costs. The provision of information about the effects of these energy efficiency measures is considered an important goal to improve transparency, and therefore confidence, in their utilization by international shipping.

Using funds provided to IMO by Transport Canada for analytical studies and other activities pertaining to the control of air related emissions from ships, a computer-based tool has been developed for the Secretariat by DNV GL to appraise technical and operational energy efficiency measures for ships.

The MS Excel based tool, in its advanced mode, permits the user to define inputs to the appraisal model including costs to identify the optimal energy efficiency (overall net benefit) through adoption of one or more of the specified energy efficiency measures. The tool is envisaged to support interested stakeholders in the preliminary investigation and initial assessment of the impacts of technical and operational energy efficiency measures. Potentially this could serve as a provisional decision-making tool as additional analysis and assessment will be required. Further, the tool is envisaged as having a use in training and improving understanding of the application of energy efficiency measures to ships.

The project report, including a user manual and the tool can be accessed from Appraisal Tool.