ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Can energy efficiency accelerate shipping decarbonization? 

Energy efficiency represents one of the most immediate and cost-effective pathways to maritime decarbonization. While fuel switching is essential, energy efficiency technologies such as hull optimization, advanced power systems, and wind-assisted propulsion can deliver significant and immediate emissions reductions. 

Energy-efficiency measures also help reduce fuel costs and regulatory exposure, especially under schemes like the EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime, and the IMO’s CII and EEXI frameworks. The IMO has now extended CII reduction targets through 2030, reinforcing the need for continuous improvement. 

The abundance of new technologies and innovative measures offers more options than ever. However, this also introduces uncertainty. To navigate this complexity, science-based, data-driven methodologies are essential for assessing and verifying emerging solutions, ensuring that investments deliver real performance gains and regulatory compliance. Importantly, robust verification of energy-efficiency measures will provide shipowners with a greater level of predictability, giving them the confidence to invest in new technologies knowing that their efforts will be recognized and rewarded under evolving regulatory frameworks. 

Shipping efficiency also plays a commercial role: reducing fuel demand improves business cases.