Project Summary - Achieved Results
Shipowners are navigating a challenging balance: They must document environmentally friendly measures to support the UN's Sustainability Goals and the IMO's ambitions to reduce CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions, while also keeping costs low. To address this challenge, this research project has developed an innovative system that could revolutionize onboard energy usage – the Smart Pump Energy Reduction System (SPERS).
The project has achieved significant results in line with its objectives. The system has proven to offer immediate energy savings and reduced fuel consumption, which will lead to lower operating costs for shipowners. Furthermore, tests have demonstrated that SPERS can significantly reduce energy usage for pumps, achieving a 75% reduction in power consumption in the test system. In just the test system alone, which is one of four onboard the test vessel, the annual power consumption was reduced from approximately 130,000 kWh to 35,000 kWh. This will contribute to reduced emissions and increased energy efficiency in shipping. Therefore, it provides shipowners with a competitive advantage by combining economic savings with environmental considerations.
Currently, continuous monitoring of the test system is ongoing, which is used for further optimization and improvement of the technology. This monitoring allows for identifying additional adjustments and ensuring that SPERS operates optimally under various operational conditions.
Project Goals and Innovation
The aim of the project was to develop a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for controlling the pumps in ship circulation systems. What makes SPERS unique is that it is not only suitable for new constructions but can also be easily retrofitted to existing vessels. This enables shipowners to achieve significant energy savings without substantial investments.
Outcomes and Impacts
The project will contribute to changing practices in the shipping industry by offering a simple and effective solution for energy management. This could influence decision-making in the industry as reduced operating costs and lower emissions become increasingly important competitive parameters. By demonstrating significant energy savings, SPERS may lead to increased demand for similar technology and contribute to more sustainable solutions in the maritime sector.
In the short term, the implementation of SPERS will contribute to immediate energy savings and reduced fuel consumption, leading to lower operating costs for shipowners. In the long term, the project can stimulate further innovation in maritime energy systems while contributing to a more sustainable and competitive shipping market.
Collaboration and Implementation
The project has been a collaboration between West Maritime, shipowner Remøy Shipping, equipment suppliers, and SINTEF Ocean. The shipowner has provided vessels for testing, where SPERS has been in real operation over a prolonged period. The test results confirm the system's efficiency and potential to become an essential tool for reduced emissions and lower energy consumption.
Long-term Effects
SPERS has the potential to impact not only the shipping industry but also other sectors such as industrial energy optimization and maritime regulation. By setting a new standard for energy efficiency, the project can contribute to the development of new technological solutions that can be transferred to other high energy-consuming industries.
Moreover, SPERS can influence policy and regulations within the shipping sector by demonstrating that innovative solutions can help meet international climate goals. The project's results can inspire stricter requirements for energy efficiency in shipping while laying the foundation for new standards and incentives for sustainable maritime technologies.
This project showcases how technology and innovation can play a key role in reducing emissions, cutting costs, and creating new jobs within a sustainable maritime sector.
