AI proves key to fuel efficiency for Stena

In 2018 Stena Line began an AI pilot on board the Stena Scandinavica on the Gothenburg – Kiel route. Results show a reduced fuel consumption of 2 – 3% per trip and the technology will now be launched on more vessels.

Stena Line has a target to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 2.5% each year. AI is proving a valuable tool in helping the company achieve this target. “Stena Line aims to become the world’s first cognitive ferry company, assisted by AI in all areas by 2021,” explained Jari Virtanen, chief transformation officer at Stena Line. “This project is using AI technology to support our captains and officers to save fuel. By improving the efficiency, we reduce both our costs and our environmental footprint.”

The successful software has been named Stena Fuel Pilot and will be installed on five more Stena Line vessels during the autumn. The ambition is to roll out to all 37 vessels in Europe during 2020.

Working side by side on the project, Stena Lines’ head of AI, Lars Carlsson, and senior master, Jan Sjöström from Stena Scandinavica, have been key players in the project’s success. “Planning a trip and handling a vessel in a safe and fuel-efficient way is craftsmanship,” said Jan Sjöström.

“Practice makes perfect but, when assisted by AI, a captain or officer can improve on how to optimise fuel quickly. In return this contributes to a more sustainable journey,” he added.