Energy Efficiency: Latest development and innovative solutions

The members of the cluster export for billions in energy efficient solutions every year. However, to stay in front we deem its important to gather both the expertise within the cluster and external experts, to share ideas and boost innovation. 

Regulatory Developments Driving Energy Efficiency

Maritime regulations are evolving rapidly to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Key updates include the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) regulation, and new fuel standards under the Fuel Maritime framework. These initiatives, along with CO2 quota purchases, are starting to reshape the industry by incentivizing lower emissions and energy-saving measures.

Tore Longva, Decarbonization Director at DNV, emphasized how IMO and EU regulations are pivotal in driving energy efficiency. The tightening requirements push shipping companies to invest in technologies and operational strategies that minimize energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Trends in Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency in the maritime industry is progressing across multiple segments. Companies are increasingly focusing on data-driven decision-making and technological advancements to improve their fleet’s performance.

Equinor’s Helge Såtendal highlighted their commitment to energy efficiency in both new and existing fleets, stating, “2025 must be better – know your numbers.” This underlines the importance of precise fuel measurements and incremental efficiency improvements. Collaboration and ownership of innovative solutions are key to achieving better performance. Additionally, Equinor is exploring new technologies to enhance tank cleaning processes, reducing injury risks and optimizing water reuse.

ENOVA has introducing how energy efficient solutions can be included into their funding programs for zero emission vessels and pioneering maritime technologies, including battery technology and multi-purpose charging stations launched in late 2024. They are also offering support for retrofitting existing vessels with shore power solutions, further aiding the transition to greener shipping.

“I always take something new with me from these seminars. Today, the long breaks allowed for valuable discussions. A conversation with a former colleague sparked a new project idea, just like a previous discussion on nuclear energy. These events provide key networking opportunities.”

Inguna Strazdina, Researcher Institute for Ocean Operations and Civil Engineering

Digitalization: A Key Driver of Energy Efficiency

Digital tools play a critical role in optimizing energy use within the maritime sector. Companies are leveraging sensor technology, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics to enhance operational efficiency.

Susteni, represented by Alina Litovchenco, focuses on data-driven decision-making for energy-efficient operations. Their solutions provide energy balance insights, optimize energy use, and facilitate emissions reduction while ensuring customized ESG reporting.

Dipai’s CEO, Andre Listou Ellefsen, presented several use cases of digital energy efficiency solutions:

• Accurate Data Foundation: AI-driven detection of vessel operating modes improves fuel reporting accuracy.
• Dynamic Machinery Baseline: AI-based optimization identifies the most fuel-efficient machinery configurations.
• Hydrodynamic Performance: Monitoring hull and propeller fouling, with predictive cleaning schedules, has resulted in a 49% decrease in propulsion power losses.
• Condition-Based Maintenance: Predictive analytics ensure optimal overhaul intervals for energy efficiency.

Hardware Solutions for Energy Optimization

In addition to digital advancements, innovative hardware solutions are contributing significantly to energy savings.

Wavefoil Technologies' CTO, Erlend Nærland Vastveit, discussed how their wave energy recovery solutions enhance vessel performance in challenging sea conditions.

Mainstay AS, led by CEO Thore Standal, specializes in on-demand hull cleaning, reducing fuel consumption by preventing biofouling.

Ulmatec Pyro’s CSO, Per Kristian Urkedal, presented their thermal energy management solutions, which utilize surplus heat and thermal storage to reduce boiler usage. This approach saves an estimated 300 tons of fuel annually, translating to approximately NOK 1.8 million in cost savings on a RoRo vessel.

Dimo’s Håvard Stave, explained contributions further exemplify their focus on ship operations to make high efficient hydraulic systems with focus on an holistic system design approach. 

The cluster is well-positioned in this field through energy-efficient equipment, ship design, and ship operations. Today, we see substantial income for Norwegian suppliers due to their energy-efficient solutions and green technologies.Knut Tore Aurdal, Head of Projects in GCE Blue Maritime Cluster

The Path Forward

The maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation driven by regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and digital innovation. We firmly believe that companies embracing these changes by investing in energy-efficient solutions and data-driven decision-making will be well-positioned to navigate the future of sustainable shipping. Collaboration among stakeholders will be essential in achieving industry-wide energy efficiency goals while meeting stringent environmental standards.

Since any alternative fuel has a lower energy density than today’s common fuels, the single most important element in a green maritime transition is energy efficiency. This position is now gradually being strengthened by the global increase in taxation on emissions, meaning that energy-efficient solutions that were not profitable yesterday will be profitable tomorrow 

The cluster is well-positioned in this field through energy-efficient equipment, ship design, and ship operations. Today, we see substantial income for Norwegian suppliers due to their energy-efficient solutions and green technologies, says Knut Tore Aurdal, Head of Projects in GCE Blue Maritime Cluster. It is, however, important to maintain our competitive edge. Through our  New Blue Deal, we will continue to create projects and meeting places on this topic to utilize the cluster effect and ensure our members working with energy-efficient solutions remain competitive on the global stage in the future!