Direct emissions monitoring captures emissions data at the source, providing accurate, reliable, and immediately verifiable information. Unlike general estimates, direct monitoring reflects real-world conditions, such as changes in engine load, to offer precise emissions data. This approach brings tangible benefits across several key areas.
Improving CII
Direct emissions monitoring can significantly improve a vessel’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating by enhancing the precision of emissions reporting. Even a 10% improvement in reported CO2 emissions can shift a vessel from an E grade to a C grade, effectively moving it from non-compliant to compliant.
For example, data from one major cruise line showed that direct emissions monitoring revealed actual emissions to be 11% lower than previously assumed using fuel-based estimates. Another shipping company reported that direct monitoring reduced CO2 emissions data by 10%, leading to $6 million in savings for a 130-tonne cruise ship operating with 52,000 MT of fuel per year.
Reducing Unnecessary Spending On Low-Carbon Fuels
A more accurate CII rating can prevent unnecessary expenditures on expensive low-carbon fuels. Some shipping companies feel pressured to use biofuels to comply with the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). While biofuels are classified as zero-carbon under the EU ETS and do not require emissions allowances (EUAs), they are significantly more expensive than conventional fuels.
If estimated emissions are overreported, a ship’s CII rating may be inaccurately low, making it appear less efficient than it actually is. With direct emissions monitoring, companies can obtain precise emissions data and may find that they do not need to rely on costly low-carbon fuels to improve their CII performance.
Evaluating Fuel Quality
Since the introduction of the 0.5% sulphur cap in 2020, many fuel suppliers have blended different stocks to meet this requirement. This has resulted in inconsistencies in fuel quality and the presence of potentially harmful substances, such as chlorinated hydrocarbons, which can cause corrosion and damage vessel machinery and equipment. In severe cases, poor fuel quality can lead to engine failure, increasing both vessel downtime and maintenance costs.
Beyond financial implications, downtime also increases the likelihood of insurance claims, which can be complex and difficult to resolve due to incomplete evidence.
Direct emissions monitoring plays a critical role in evaluating fuel quality and its impact. By analysing emissions data in real time, it can pinpoint combustion inefficiencies and identify potential issues before they escalate. Operators can then adjust engine parameters, such as fuel injection timing to maintain optimal performance.
By delivering precise, real-time data, direct emissions monitoring enables operators to make immediate adjustments and more informed fuel choices in the future.
Route And Planning Optimisation
Traditionally, shipping companies optimise routes based on weather patterns, fuel consumption, and distance. However, direct emissions monitoring adds an additional layer of intelligence by identifying inefficiencies in engine performance and fuel combustion at different speeds.
For example, a vessel sailing at 13 knots may be experiencing poor fuel combustion and high emissions. Analysis could reveal that increasing speed to 15 knots actually improves engine efficiency, reduces fuel wastage, and lowers total emissions. While it may seem counterintuitive to increase speed to save fuel, real-time emissions data provides accurate insights into engine efficiency at various speeds.
32 This data has been provided by SailPlan. The name of the cruise line has been anonymised for privacy.
33 This data has been provided by SailPlan. The name of the shipping company has been anonymised for privacy.
34 Brookes Bell (Jun, 2024) Bunker fuel quality continues to risk impacting vessel operations
35 UK Defense Club (Sep, 2023) Bunkers: quality and quantity claims
For a more detailed understanding and exploration of the topics covered in this article, refer to our report, Transforming Maritime Operations: Unlocking Accurate Data for Sustainability and Compliance, commissioned by SailPlan.
