In a move that could significantly shake up the maritime industry’s approach to sustainability, DNV has thrown down the gauntlet, inviting feedback on its freshly minted Recommended Practice (RP) for assessing wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS). This isn’t just another dry technical document; it’s a call to action for the entire sector to get on board with a more transparent and reliable way to evaluate these technologies.
Johanna Tranell, DNV Maritime’s WAPS Performance Assessment Lead, doesn’t mince words. She asserts that the new RP is about establishing a practical, reliable standard that cuts through the noise and generates transparent, verifiable data. “Building trust in the potential of these systems is crucial,” she says, and this RP is designed to do just that.
So, what’s the big deal about this RP? Well, it proposes an on/off methodology that’s as straightforward as it is ingenious. By engaging and disengaging the WAPS under similar operational and environmental conditions, the RP provides a robust framework for measuring performance. Combine this with independent third-party verification, and you’ve got a recipe for actionable insights that shipowners and operators can sink their teeth into.
But here’s where it gets interesting. DNV isn’t just preaching to the choir; they’re inviting everyone to the party. Shipowners, operators, technology providers, academia, and regulators—DNV wants your feedback. This isn’t just about creating a standard; it’s about fostering a dialogue that could shape the future of maritime propulsion.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The maritime industry has been slow to adopt wind-assisted propulsion, and for good reason. The technology has been a bit of a black box, with performance claims often shrouded in mystery. But if DNV’s RP gains traction, we could see a sea change in how these systems are evaluated and, ultimately, adopted.
Imagine a future where shipowners can confidently invest in WAPS, knowing that the performance claims are backed by solid, verifiable data. Imagine a future where regulators can set standards based on reliable, transparent assessments. Imagine a future where the maritime industry takes a significant step towards sustainability, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes good business sense.
But this future isn’t guaranteed. It hinges on the industry’s willingness to engage with DNV’s RP, to provide feedback, and to push for its adoption. It hinges on the industry’s willingness to challenge the status quo and embrace a more transparent, reliable way of doing things.
So, what’s it going to be, maritime industry? Are you ready to catch the wind of change, or are you going to let this opportunity slip through your fingers? The ball is in your court, and the clock is ticking. Let’s make some waves.
