Wärtsilä’s new FOS module aids regulatory compliance

For many, the most viable strategy for reducing emissions and mitigating the cost of emissions penalties is to achieve cumulative efficiency gains by optimising vessel operations. Wärtsilä’s new EU Emissions Compliance module within its Fleet Optimisation Solution (FOS) platform offers a practical solution for the management of incoming regulations. Through leveraging real data, the module enables users to simulate FuelEU compliance for their vessel, giving them the opportunity to optimise their position. Users can explore all the different – and most cost-effective – possibilities for vessel compliance, ranging anywhere from the use of alternative fuels, to applying energy saving technologies to potential options for pooling vessels under the regulatory regime.

According to Kay Dausendschoen, Head of Product – Optimisation, Voyage Services, Wärtsilä Marine, the new module update in FOS is a game-changer for maritime operators facing stringent new regulations.

Kay explains: “Our FOS platform allows operators to harness real-time data from their vessels to make informed decisions that optimise operations and reduce emissions. By turning compliance requirements into opportunities for efficiency gains, the new module addition to FOS can help operators not only avoid penalties but also achieve significant cost savings and enhance their overall sustainability.”

The importance of Fleet Optimisation

It is widely accepted that by better understanding how vessels are operated, shipping companies can identify opportunities for efficiency gains that cumulatively have a significant impact.

“For many vessels, operational optimisation remains the only viable energy-saving measure to counter the additional costs imposed by FuelEU regulations. By focusing on optimising routes, adjusting speeds, and improving fuel efficiency through data-driven decisions, operators can reduce emissions and fuel consumption, leading to cost savings and enhanced compliance.”

“In an industry where margins are thin, leveraging real-time data is essential for making informed operational decisions. Our new EU Emissions Compliance module captures data directly from onboard equipment, providing operators with accurate, up-to-date information on vessel performance in relation to emission standards. By analysing engine metrics, fuel consumption, and navigation data within the context of EU compliance, operators can identify inefficiencies and implement adjustments in real time. This ensures they not only optimise operational efficiency but also avoid strict penalties moving forward,” Kay says.

Streamlining compliance and reporting

The FOS module already includes several key features that address the needs of maritime operators. Performance Analytics offer in-depth insights into vessel performance, highlighting areas for efficiency improvements and cost reduction, while Voyage Optimisation utilises real-time navigation data to plan and execute voyages with optimal efficiency and minimal environmental impact. With the addition of FuelEU compliance capabilities, it will assist operators by ensuring accurate greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity calculations based on verified data.

“With the impending regulations, accurate reporting and compliance are paramount. The EU Emissions module’s FuelEU compliance capabilities ensure that GHG intensity calculations are based on verified, reliable data. By eliminating the guesswork associated with assumed values, operators can confidently report their emissions, knowing that their data meets regulatory standards. This cohesive system reduces administrative burdens and minimises the risk of errors, enabling operators to focus on efficient vessel management,” Kay adds.

Wärtsilä has also made significant investments in SmartLog, an advanced noon reporting tool, to ensure that all data collected is accurate, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards. By capturing real-time operational data directly from vessels, SmartLog provides a factual basis for assessing vessel performance and identifying areas for improvement. Accurate data aids in performance benchmarking, comparing vessel performance over time to set and achieve improvement targets.

Digital twinning

“While meeting immediate regulatory requirements is essential, preparing for future challenges is equally important. The new module within FOS includes advanced vessel modelling capabilities through digital twin technology—a powerful tool that allows operators to accurately visualise and estimate the impact of various operational options,” Kay explains.

Digital twin technology creates a virtual replica of a physical vessel by integrating real-time data from onboard sensors and systems. This virtual model serves as a dynamic platform where operators can simulate different scenarios and operational strategies without risking actual assets. By accurately visualising the vessel’s performance under various conditions, operators can assess the potential impact of adjustments before implementing them in the real world.

One of the key benefits of digital twin technology, working in tandem with EU Emissions compliance, is the ability to simulate operational options with precision. Operators can model the effects of changes in speed, route, cargo load, fuel type and other variables on fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, digital twin technology supports predictive maintenance by continuously monitoring the virtual vessel to anticipate equipment wear and potential failures. This foresight allows for timely maintenance interventions, reducing unplanned downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment.

“The digital twin enables operators to test responses to adverse weather conditions, mechanical failures, or other unexpected events. By exploring these scenarios virtually, operators can develop effective contingency plans and enhance overall safety. Cost reduction is also achieved through the identification of the most efficient operational strategies via simulation. Operators can reduce fuel costs and emissions by implementing the best practices identified in the virtual environment. The ability to test changes virtually eliminates the expenses associated with trial-and-error approaches in real operations,” Kay adds.

Simplifying operations with an all-in-one solution

“The European Union’s FuelEU Maritime initiative aims to reduce GHG emissions in maritime transport by up to 80% by 2050—a monumental challenge given the current infrastructure, every incremental energy saving is crucial, and fleet optimisation is at the heart of achieving these goals. That’s why we’ve introduced the new EU Emissions Compliance module to our FOS platform,” Kay explains.

“Fleet managers and crew often have to interpret complex and disparate data from multiple providers and non-interoperable systems. This process is cumbersome, resource-intensive, and prone to error.

“Our enhanced FOS platform simplifies operations with an all-in-one solution. By integrating the EU Emissions Compliance module, fleet managers and crew can handle all their reporting on a single platform, benefiting from automated, interoperable, and standardised data calculations. This not only streamlines compliance with new regulations but also future proofs their operations,” Kay continues.

“The maritime industry stands at a pivotal point, balancing regulatory compliance with operational efficiency and economic viability. Our new module within FOS elevates fleet optimisation to the next level. We empower operators to make informed decisions, achieve substantial efficiency gains, and confidently embrace new technologies. With Wärtsilä’s support and expertise, they are well-equipped to navigate current challenges and future demands.” Kay concludes.