Oldendorff Carriers Enhances Fleet Efficiency with New Tech
Oldendorff Carriers, a leading German dry bulk carrier operator, is taking significant steps to reduce energy consumption and emissions across its fleet. In collaboration with Swedish technology provider eMarine, the company has begun installing Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) on its vessels. This initiative aims to optimize energy use and has already shown promising results in terms of CO2 savings and operational efficiency.
Innovative Technology Implementation
Oldendorff Carriers has successfully installed VFDs on 13 of its owned vessels, with plans to equip the remainder of its fleet in the near future. These advanced systems allow onboard cooling pumps to adjust their speeds according to actual demand, rather than operating at full power continuously. This adaptability not only minimizes excess energy consumption but also enhances overall efficiency during standard operations.
Since the deployment of this technology, Oldendorff has reported an impressive reduction of over 5,000 tons in CO2 emissions. The integration of VFDs has also led to significant decreases in fuel consumption and operating costs. Niklas Richter, Head of Fleet Projects and Drydock Coordination at Oldendorff, emphasized the importance of this technology in driving efficiency gains. He noted that the smart systems enable real-time monitoring of performance from shore, allowing for continuous improvements in operational efficiency while reducing emissions.
This initiative is part of Oldendorff’s broader decarbonization strategy. The company operates a fleet of approximately 100 modern bulk carriers, which are already equipped with various fuel and energy-saving technologies. These include auxiliary engine economizers, energy-efficient LED lighting, optimized hull designs, and propulsion efficiency devices like the Becker Mewis Duct and rudder bulb.
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Commitment to Sustainable Operations
Ola Persson, CEO of eMarine, expressed pride in supporting Oldendorff’s efforts to enhance fleet-wide energy efficiency. He highlighted that the project showcases how established onboard technologies, combined with structured energy optimization and ongoing support through the eMarine.cloud platform, can yield measurable and sustainable results. By providing transparency and data-driven insights, eMarine aims to assist Oldendorff in continuously improving operational efficiency and reducing emissions across its fleet.
The collaboration between Oldendorff Carriers and eMarine marks a significant step towards a more sustainable shipping industry. As the maritime sector faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, initiatives like this one demonstrate the potential for technology to drive meaningful change. With ongoing advancements in energy optimization, Oldendorff is positioning itself as a leader in the transition to greener shipping practices.
