Webinars Prove Their Worth as Deadlines for Lower Vessel Emissions Approach

WORLDWIDE – Whereas hardly any of us had heard of a webinar pre Covid, it appears they have for some proved a useful tool. Following a series of such virtual conferences Verifavia Shipping, an independent emissions verification company for the aviation and shipping sectors, says the talks have shown the industry is unclear about the technical parameters required to meet compliance required by mandatory regulations.

The company set about a series of the online discussions with regard to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) new Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI). As with any such system accurate calculations rely on inputting the correct data.

As agreed at MEPC 76, the EEXI must be calculated for ships of 400 gross tonnes and above, in accordance with the different values set for ship types and size categories. The first stage requires shipping companies to collect and submit technical documents required for preparation of the EEXI technical file.

To initiate the process, documents such as the capacity plan, sea and shop trial report (for main and auxiliary engines), NOx technical file, certificate of registry, IAPP supplement certificate, EEDI technical file and IECC must be examined. If suitable data cannot be obtained from these documents, various techniques may be used to bridge the gap such as statistical (conservative) estimates, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations or, if necessary, sea trials.

By inputting correct and accurate data into a formula, the attained EEXI is calculated and compared with the required EEXI. Any ship that does not comply must make the necessary modifications to improve energy efficiency or face market barriers. From January 2023, there will be a mandatory certification survey undertaken by the relevant class society, which will then provide an updated International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC). Without this, the vessel will not be EEXI compliant and eventually can lose its licence to operate.

With the long-term financial implications and negotiation process with charterers front of mind, some forward-thinking shipping companies are starting the process now. Understanding which vessels will comply and which will need an Engine Power Limitation plan or design changes at a later stage ensures that any modifications can be made at a time that suits the vessel’s schedule.

However, making an accurate calculation and reliable recommendations for any necessary technical adjustments relies upon assessing the correct information at the outset. Julien Dufour, CEO, Verifavia Shipping, commented:

“At the first annual or special survey after January 2023, a ship’s efficiency will be compared against the EEXI benchmark set by the IMO. If the vessel makes the grade, the owner will receive an International Energy Efficiency Certificate. If it fails, there are two options: make modifications to improve efficiency or risk an operating ban. If the technical files submitted to class are incorrect, the vessel risks losing its licence to operate.

“It is essential to understand any gaps in meeting the requirements, plus the potential solutions needed to bridge any gap, sooner rather than later. Several ship owners, operators and managers are working with Verifavia to assess the scale of the challenge they are facing. They recognise that if vessels do not meet the requirements, an Engine Power Limitation plan can be created and actioned, or energy efficiency technology installed against a timeline that they can control.”

Verifavia says it will continue to run free webinars which explain the process and requirements for both EEXI and CII regulations. For more information on the process required to prepare for 2023 simply click HERE.