RINA, an inspection, certification, ship classification, and consulting engineering company, has made a significant announcement at Nor-Shipping regarding the Approval in Principle (AiP) for a new Ultramax bulker design. This innovative project, developed in collaboration with Almi Marine Management S.A. and the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI), represents a major advancement in maritime technology.
The new vessel is based on SDARI’s latest-generation Green Dolphin 64 platform and features a dual-fuel LNG/hydrogen power system. Among its notable elements are hybrid propulsion and advanced energy-efficient technologies.
The AiP signifies RINA’s acknowledgment that the design successfully incorporates battery-assisted electric propulsion, wind-assisted systems, and a novel hydrogen-reforming solution. This solution effectively mitigates the challenges associated with liquid hydrogen storage and supply.
The redefined propulsion mechanism in this concept marks a transformative step for merchant shipping. With its modern hull design, the vessel not only increases cargo capacity but also significantly reduces fuel consumption.
The hybrid-electric propulsion system provides the flexibility necessary to embrace future technological innovations, while the integration of wind-assisted propulsion further enhances energy efficiency. A noteworthy aspect of this design is its onboard hydrogen production capability, which paves the way for decarbonization free from the technical hurdles of supply and storage.
This feature not only improves the ship’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) but also optimizes its route towards compliance with GHG Fuel Intensity (GFI) regulations. Ultimately, the design aims for net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 by progressively transforming LNG into hydrogen onboard.
Overall, this groundbreaking design addresses the need for energy savings and reduced emissions while being adaptable to integrate future solutions in line with evolving regulatory requirements.