Hapag-Lloyd, a leading container line, has successfully reduced emissions and operational costs by implementing Shipshave’s In Transit Cleaning of Hull (ITCH) solution.
This initiative, part of the company’s sustainability efforts, has been documented and validated by DNV, a class society.
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The analysis of two Hapag-Lloyd container ships, one an 8,749 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) and the other an 18,800 TEU vessel, revealed significant fuel savings and emissions reductions over a 17-month period.
The DNV study indicated that the two ships, despite their different sizes and operational profiles, both achieved impressive improvements in performance.
The larger vessel saw a 16% performance enhancement, equating to a daily fuel consumption reduction of about 8.4t. This improvement is comparable to eliminating the emissions from over 4,900 fossil-fuel-driven cars.
The other vessel, while starting from a better initial performance, also managed a fuel consumption reduction of nearly 5%. The ITCH system’s regular use ensured the maintenance of these performance levels over time.
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By GlobalDataHapag-Lloyd Director Fleet Energy Efficiency Nikhilesh Bhatia said: “We are very pleased that this analysis from DNV confirms our internal assessment of the result achieved by the implementation of ITCH. This method reflects our proactive approach to reducing emissions caused by biofouling.”
The ITCH system’s proactive approach to managing hull biofouling initially reduced resistance and, through regular use, prevented the long-term performance degradation typically caused by fouling re-growth.
While the total economic benefits of proactive cleaning with ITCH are likely underestimated, the Return on Investment (ROI) for the two vessels was impressive, at under three months at sea.
DNV Maritime Advisory Ship Performance Center Senior Principal Consultant Dr. Uwe Hollenbach said: “The findings of this case study emphasise the critical role of minimising biofouling in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping.
“As outlined in our recent Maritime Forecast to 2050 report, regular or proactive hull cleaning remains one of the most effective strategies to achieve this goal.”
By prioritising a clean hull, Hapag-Lloyd not only supports a healthier ocean and planet but also strengthens its financial performance, showcasing the potential for green technologies to drive industry-wide change.
