DNV GL: Hybrid Propulsion Systems "Gaining Ground Faster than Expected"

Tor E. Svensen, CEO at DNV GL – Maritime, says hybrid propulsion systems and connected ship solutions are "gaining ground faster than expected".

Hybrid propulsion systems and connected ship solutions are emerging technologies that are "gaining ground faster than expected", Tor E. Svensen, CEO at DNV GL - Maritime (DNV GL), said Monday at the opening day of Nor-Shipping in Oslo. 

The comments follow recent updates to the classification society's "Shipping 2020" report, originally published in 2012.

Although "unanticipated" during the development of the original report, DNV GL says a considerable drop in battery prices, as well as improved energy storage capacity, means that hybrid systems are now becoming a real option for the shipping industry.

"Currently, there are already 33 hybrid vessels in operation or on order, and looking ahead it is possible this number will top 100 by 2020," Svensen said.

Turning to connected ship solutions, Svensen explained that with "global high-speed internet coverage, increased computing power and big data solutions turn the vision of the connected ship into reality," thereby providing ship owners and operators with better tools to enhance ship efficiency. 

"By bringing together and analysing both data from on-board monitoring systems and from external sources, a comprehensive insight is gained of voyage, engine and hull performance," said Svensen.

"Voyage management based on shipboard sensors and AIS data, for example, can help to determine the optimal speed in all conditions and thereby reduce fuel bills."

Svensen also noted that the report updates point out "how market conditions and the regulatory framework have influenced technology uptake," altering expectations for how the industry will adapt and develop while heading toward 2020.

In March, DNV GL predicted that an expected increase in worldwide gas supply coinciding with an expected cut in output from oil producers may lead to heavy fuel oil (HFO) disappearing from the market by 2025.