Silverstream wins Grimaldi Group deal

This follows the news that cruise company, Carnival Corporation, has also successfully retrofitted the technology on its Diamond Princess.

Silverstream stressed that rigour in research and development and demonstrating efficiency savings is key to gaining the trust of ship owners and operators.

Noah Silberschmidt, Silverstream Technologies’ chief executive, said: “It is heartening to see shipping’s innovating spirit rise to the surface and for clean technologies, and in particular air lubrication, to be recognised as a commercially viable solution to both the industry’s impending regulatory challenges and its growing demand for increased operational efficiencies and sustainability.

“As fuel prices rise as a result of regulation, owners will need a way to mitigate costs. Clean technologies are one of the best means to achieving this, but only if those solutions are credible, means-tested and proven.”

By working with partners including HSVA, Lloyd’s Register and Shell, Silverstream has established clear evidence of air lubrication technology’s fuel savings potential.

“Shipping has crossed an important threshold; air lubrication systems are now recognised by regulators and industry leaders as one of the most compelling ways to realise fuel and efficiency savings,” continued Mr Silberschmidt.

“The trust in the fundamental science of these technologies – which is now a proven way to reduce the hydrodynamic drag of a vessel and its carbon footprint – lays down the gauntlet for other clean technology manufacturers to follow in terms of seeking verification and proof of their systems.”