Introduction
The IMO’s strategy to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 is a key commitment to leading the shipping industry towards a more sustainable future. This strategy not only sets ambitious targets but also outlines a series of short and long-term measures designed to guide the transition to low-carbon solutions. Moreover, the European Union (EU) is integrating maritime emissions into its Emissions Trading System (ETS), challenging the Shipping industry to adopt renewable energy and clean technologies.
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is recognized as a viable alternative for decarbonizing the maritime sector with minimal retrofit costs and substantial potential for well-to-wake (WtW) GHG emission reduction. Derived from vegetable or animal sources, HVO may contain up to 100% renewable components and is composed of a mixture of stable, non-hygroscopic paraffins, making it resistant to bacterial contamination. HVO is a sulfur-free, stable, and sustainable solution. For these reasons, HVO fully complies with IMO’s flashpoint and pollutants content requirements as per SOLAS and MARPOL regulations.
Description of the Test Performed Onboard the AHTS DP2 BOS Champagne (Luxembourg Flag)
Britoil, in partnership with their long-standing client ENI, the Classification Society RINA, the engine makers Niigata and Caterpillar, and the Luxembourg Flag Administration, performed a revolutionary test onboard their 2014-built DP2 AHTS “BOS Champagne.” This test aims to accelerate the transition to sustainable fuels in the Offshore Support Vessels industry.
On 21st March 2024, for the first time, 100% HVO was used onboard an OSV during a full-day simulation offshore Ravenna, Italy, conducted by the BOS Champagne. Following strict procedures and risk assessments coordinated among all parties involved (Owners, Class, Flag Administration, Engine Maker, Client), the vessel operated under various conditions and modes: loading in port, sailing to the offshore field at economic speed, simulating a 500-meter zone platform-approach in Dynamic Position, and concluding with a full-speed transit back to Ravenna port where the changeover procedures from HVO to MGO were tested.
The test demonstrated the viability of HVO as an efficient, sustainable and immediately available alternative to marine gasoil. The operational performance of the vessel after a full day burning 100% HVO did not lead to any deviation from the norm. Despite HVO’s lower calorific value, fuel consumption while sailing and in DP mode was comparable to that of marine gasoil. According to the engine maker's report, no transient response variations were observed.
Under all tested load conditions, smoke and soot emissions were significantly clearer and reduced. The HVO to MGO changeover procedure was executed without any issues.
This successful test was the result of weeks of hard work and coordination, showcasing the exceptional technical abilities of Britoil’s Ship Management Team. We believe this is only the beginning of a faster transition to sustainable fuels, and we look forward to further cooperation with clients, suppliers, classification societies, and other stakeholders to reduce the carbon impact of our industry.