Rising Bunker Costs Drive Focus on Marine Engine Performance: CMT

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Monday September 28, 2026

Bunker prices have risen sharply since the US-Iran war, while ships are taking longer routes around conflict zones, increasing pressure on owners to control fuel consumption, according to testing and monitoring technology firm CM Technologies (CMT).

Higher fuel costs, an ageing fleet and tighter emissions requirements are making detailed engine performance data increasingly important.

VLSFO is trading at around $881/mt, while the average fleet age is about 13 years, according to Clarksons data.

“Shipowners cannot control the carbon price, and they have limited control over the price of bunker fuel, but they can investigate whether their ageing ships and engines are running as efficiently as they can,” David Fuhlbrügge, joint managing director at CMT, said.

Tighter emissions rules are adding to the need for closer engine monitoring.

Shipping is covered by the EU Emissions Trading System, while methane and nitrous oxide were added this year.

FuelEU Maritime has entered its first verification period, while the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator applies to ships of 5,000 GT and above.

“Small problems result in significant increases in specific fuel oil consumption and spikes in carbon emissions,” Fuhlbrügge said.

CMT’s PREMET X analyser measures cylinder pressure during engine operation, helping engineers assess combustion and identify anomalies. Its Fleet Manager and PREMET Cloud tools allow operators to compare and track engine performance across fleets.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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