Torvald Klaveness Newbuilds to Use ABB's OCTOPUS Software to Save Fuel, Meet Environmental Regs

OCTOPUS provides insight on key performance parameters, including fuel efficiency.

ABB Tuesday announced that its OCTOPUS marine software will be installed on three of Torvald Klaveness' newbuild vessels, enabling the shipping company to meet incoming emissions regulations, save on fuel costs, and optimise its fleet-wide performance.

OCTOPUS, which is compliant with the IMO Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) and the European Union's (EU's) Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) regulations, gathers information collected by onboard sensors to provide insight on key performance parameters, including fuel efficiency.

As Ship & Bunker has previously reported, the MRV regulation will require shipping companies to submit ship-specific monitoring plans to verifiers for approval by the end of the August 2017, with per-voyage monitoring set to start on January 1, 2018.

"ABB has a tremendous focus on making sure that our customers meet regulations issued by the European Union and the IMO," said Juha Koskela, Managing Director of ABB's marine and ports business.

"Our marine software has a vital role to play in meeting regulation and raising efficiency across whole fleets."

OCTOPUS uses historical data to create benchmarks for future performance to ensure the most efficient profile is used.

In addition, the software's monitoring and reporting functionality, Torductor Marine, a torque measurement system, is noted to optimise engine and fuel efficiency of vessels.

"Klaveness wants to improve the very nature of shipping. Embracing digital technology like ABB's OCTOPUS Marine Software will help us realize our vision by allowing us to operate our vessels in a more efficient and sustainable way while complying with environmental regulations," Christian Hovden, Project Manager at Torvald Klaveness.