Summary is AI-generated, newsdesk-reviewed
  • ClassNK approves Oshima Shipbuilding’s fuel-ready carrier design for future alternative fuels.
  • Certification ensures vessel compliance with regulatory, safety standards for alternative fuel use.
  • Guidelines include readiness for onboard CO2 capture and storage for decarbonisation efforts.

ClassNK has granted approval in principle (AiP) to Oshima Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., for its innovative concept design of a Multiple Alternative Fuels Ready Bulk Carrier.

This vessel is designed to accommodate various alternative fuels, including ammonia, methanol, and LNG, and is also prepared for onboard CO2 capture and storage systems (OCCS). The approval signals that the ship design meets the necessary regulatory and safety standards.

Compliance with alternative fuel guidelines

The approval follows ClassNK’s latest publication, Annex 1 Alternative Fuel Ready (Edition 3.0.1), which is part of the Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels. These guidelines detail the criteria for ships that, while not initially using alternative fuels, are anticipated to be equipped to do so in the future.

The vessel developed by Oshima Shipbuilding incorporates features that align with these guidelines, ensuring its readiness for future fuel use adaptations.

Onboard CO2 capture and storage capabilities

The vessel is evaluated against the Guidelines for Onboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems (Edition 2.0)

In addition to alternative fuel readiness, the vessel is evaluated against the Guidelines for Onboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems (Edition 2.0). 

These requirements include provisions for the installation and operation of OCCS technologies. Oshima Shipbuilding’s design has been reviewed in accordance with these standards, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and emission reduction efforts.

Commitment to decarbonisation

ClassNK’s review process confirmed that the vessel's design adheres to the necessary guidelines, allowing the issuance of AiP.

This step underlines ClassNK’s dedication to promoting advanced decarbonisation initiatives, showcasing its role in supporting the maritime industry's transition towards more sustainable practices.

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