OrbitMI looks to ease FuelEU burden

OrbitMI, a New York-based software provider, emphasises that compliance will rely on effective monitoring of fuel use and emissions. In partnership with Bureau Veritas (BV), OrbitMI is offering advanced, data-driven tools to help ship operators navigate these complex regulatory requirements.

Following the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the new FuelEU Maritime regulation presents operational challenges, requiring vessel operators to carefully manage and monitor fuel mixtures across voyages to meet greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity reduction targets and avoid penalties.

“FuelEU marks a significant shift in maritime regulations, driving more sustainable fuel solutions and adding complexity to shipping operations,” says OrbitMI CEO Ali Riaz (pictured). He stressed that compliance will demand a deep understanding of the rules and increased cooperation between shipowners, operators, and managers as the 2025 implementation deadline approaches.

Accurate tracking, reporting, and verification of fuel use and emissions are key for compliance under FuelEU. OrbitMI’s platform, enhanced with BV Marine & Offshore, facilitates real-time data sharing, enabling all stakeholders to make informed decisions throughout a voyage. The platform offers real-time visibility into a vessel’s itinerary, fuel consumption, and environmental conditions, allowing shipowners and operators to avoid post-voyage compliance issues and minimise penalties.

FuelEU aims to drive the use of alternative fuels through a penalty system based on GHG intensity, measured from well-to-wake. The regulation sets progressive GHG reduction targets, from 2% in 2025 to 80% by 2050. Flexible compliance mechanisms, such as pooling, banking, and borrowing surpluses or deficits, will help operators manage their obligations and avoid penalties. Biofuels are seen as a viable short-term option to ease compliance and generate surpluses for pooling.

OrbitMI’s platform enables fuel selection simulations to estimate FuelEU exposure during pre-fixture planning, optimising routes and bunkering strategies to reduce penalties. The platform also supports post-voyage reporting to ensure compliance and generate insights for future fuel selection.

With integration into existing systems like VeriSTAR Green for streamlined reporting, OrbitMI plans further FuelEU upgrades, including features like pooling management. As Riaz concludes, “The complexity of new regulations requires innovative, data-driven solutions that streamline compliance, optimise operations, and drive sustainable practices.”