EU ETS Compliance and Vessel Performance Optimization
In an era where digital transformation reshapes sector after sector, the maritime industry stands on the cusp of its own digital revolution. As businesses across all domains remain alert and watchful about the potential disruptors that could overturn established norms and power balances, the threat—or opportunity—of a tech-led radical change in maritime operations is great.
Digital disruption changes the fundamental expectations and behaviours in a culture, market, industry, or process and is caused by,
or expressed through, digital capabilities, channels, or assets. In the maritime sector, this disruption can be seen in several key areas: automation, data analytics, supply chain optimization, and environmental monitoring, to name just a few.
These technologies offer profound advantages. For example, automation in shipping logistics not only enhances efficiency but also improves safety, reducing human error and optimizing route manage- ment, which can result in significant financial benefits. Data analytics allow for real-time decision-making, forecasting, and better management of resources, which are crucial in a field as dynamic as maritime operations. In an era of heightened environmental awareness and technological progression, the maritime industry faces significant challenges. Two of the most pressing issues are compliance with the upcoming European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) regulations and the continuous optimization of vessel performance. This is where Oriani Hellas comes in, being a beacon of digital innovation and expertise in the maritime sector. Oriani Hellas selects and represents some of the most innovative and “value adding” global digital providers to unlock the full potential of shipping enterprises. Oriani Hellas acts as a trusted advisor regarding maritime digital transformation for shipping companies located in Greece and EMEA. It represents solutions that not only address these challenges but also set new standards in operational efficiency and sustainability.
Understanding the EU ETS and its Impact on Shipping
EU ETS “arrived” in the shipping industry in January 2024, and mandates that large ships trading in European waters must monitor, report, and verify their carbon emissions. The aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making polluters responsible for their emissions through a cap-and-trade system. Adapting to the EU ETS involves setting up systems to accurately monitor, report, and verify emissions data for vessels. This is technically complex and costly, especially for companies that do not have existing frameworks suited to the standards required. Companies need to invest in cleaner technologies, retrofit older vessels, or modify operational practices. As companies adapt at different rates, there’s a risk that those slower to integrate changes could face competitive disadvantages, potentially losing market share to more agile or innovative competitors. Finally, non-compliance could result in hefty fines and a tarnished reputation, urging shipping companies to seek effective strategies to manage their carbon liabilities.
Oriani’s assisting in EU ETS Compliance
To assist shipping companies in understanding the complexities of the EU ETS, Oriani represents OceanScore, a comprehensive management platform designed to streamline the tracking and allocation of EU allowances (EUAs). This platform enables companies to efficiently manage EUAs by assigning them to specific charterers, voyages, or
vessels, thus ensuring full compliance. Moreover, OceanScore includes a built-in trading platform, allowing companies to actively man- age their carbon credits by buying or selling EUAs as needed, turning regulatory compliance into an opportunity for cost management and strategic trading. Depending on the level of understanding within the company, OceanScore can also offer an advisory service. This will help guide companies on the actions they need to take to ensure compliance, the best internal process for their types of operations and state of their data, and how to setup the necessary accounts.
Enhancing Vessel Performance in the Digital Age
The optimization of vessel performance is crucial for reducing operational costs, enhancing safety, and minimizing environmental impact. This includes precise fuel management, efficient weather routing, and overall vessel operational efficiency, which are essential for the high competitiveness in today’s market. The drive towards optimization is not just about reducing costs or complying with regulations—it’s also about enhancing competitive advantage in a tight market. Shipping companies that can effectively manage these aspects of vessel performance are better positioned to respond to market demands and regulatory changes quickly and profitably. Therefore, the discussion about optimizing vessel performance is both a technical challenge and a strategic imperative, requiring a balanced approach to innovation, investment, and change management.
Oriani’s Innovative Solutions for Vessel Optimization
Ascenz Marorka, a combination of specialist performance companies now operating together within one platform, is at the forefront of Oriani’s technical solutions for vessel performance analysis and optimization. Ascenz Marorka provides an all-encompassing package of hardware, including sensors and data acquisition units, coupled with advanced software that delivers deep insights into vessel performance and fuel consumption. The software can operate with high-frequency data or with just noon-reports if the sensors aren’t available, covering all levels of digitally enabled ships. This technology supports the operations teams as well by including advanced weather routing and optimization, allowing ships to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively while always focussing on safety.
Oriani Hellas for a Sustainable Maritime Future
At Oriani Hellas, we view these challenges not as threats, but as opportunities. As a trusted partner in maritime digital transformation, Oriani Hellas is positioned to lead this shift. Our strategy revolves around integrating new technologies with industry knowledge to deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed the needs of our partners. Collaborations between traditional maritime businesses and tech giants or start-ups can lead to a symbiotic growth environment where innovation thrives, and financial benefits are obtained by all. By partnering with these entities, we facilitate the adoption of advanced technologies and foster an ecosystem of continuous innovation. Oriani Hellas assists shipping companies in Greece and EMEA to unlock their full potential by leveraging the power of digital platforms, for the benefit of all departments. Oriani Hellas represents a number of innovative global digital providers, including: Ascenz Marorka, OceanScore, Maritime-Trainer, Sedna, Bearing AI, ShipNet, Procure- ship, Captain’s Eye, 3D Cosmos, MedAssist.online, Purple TRAC, The Ship AS, Health4Crew & Guide2Inspections.
* Co- Founder ORIANI