Berge Bulk has just pulled off a staggering feat, successfully completing the world’s first retrofit installation of the Renk Integrated Front-end Power System (IFPS) shaft generator on its vessel, the Berge Dachstein. This isn’t just a technical achievement; it’s a bold statement in the maritime industry’s ongoing quest for decarbonisation. The Newcastlemax vessel, with a deadweight tonnage of 208,718, is now a floating testament to what’s possible when innovation meets sustainability.
The Renk IFPS is no ordinary piece of kit. It’s an advanced front-end shaft generator system that taps into the ship’s main engine crankshaft via a gearbox to produce electricity. Here’s the kicker: the main engine is more fuel-efficient than the auxiliary engines, so by using this system, the vessel can slash its overall fuel consumption and, consequently, its emissions. Berge Bulk estimates that Berge Dachstein will save at least one tonne of fuel per day while the shaft generator is running, which translates to a reduction of over three tonnes of CO2 emissions per day. That’s a significant chunk of carbon footprint vanishing into thin air.
But the benefits don’t stop at fuel savings. The IFPS shaft generator also reduces the need to run auxiliary engines while sailing. This means less maintenance, lower operational costs, and fewer overhauls for the auxiliary engines. It’s a win-win situation that keeps the ship running smoothly while also being kinder to the environment.
Paolo Tonon, Berge Bulk’s Technical Director, couldn’t be more thrilled about the installation. “This retrofit marks another milestone in our decarbonisation journey,” he said. “By integrating the Renk IFPS shaft generator into an existing vessel, we are proving that innovative technology can drive efficiency and reduce emissions across our fleet in a safe and reliable manner.”
So, what does this mean for the future of the maritime industry? Well, for starters, it’s a clear signal that retrofitting existing vessels with cutting-edge technology is not only feasible but also highly beneficial. Berge Bulk isn’t stopping at one vessel either. They plan to retrofit two more vessels with front-end shaft generators in 2025, showing a clear commitment to expanding the use of energy-saving technology across their fleet.
This move by Berge Bulk is more than just a step; it’s a leap towards maritime decarbonisation. It aligns perfectly with their Maritime Marshall Plan, which focuses on operational efficiency, cutting-edge technology, new fuels, and carbon capture. By leading the way with this retrofit, Berge Bulk is challenging the industry to follow suit and embrace innovative solutions.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and initiatives like this one are paving the way for a more sustainable future. It’s not just about reducing emissions; it’s about rethinking how we operate and innovating for a cleaner, more efficient industry. Berge Bulk’s bold move is a wake-up call to the rest of the sector: the future is here, and it’s electric—and efficient.
