NYK and JMU Launch Initiative to Boost Fuel Efficiency and Cut GHG Emissions
NYK and Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU) have joined forces to enhance the fuel efficiency of vessels while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Since September 2020, both companies have been working on a method to estimate a ship’s propulsion performance under real sea conditions, known as “actual sea performance.” This initiative aims to ensure that new vessels perform efficiently in the unpredictable environments of the ocean.
The collaboration has led to a significant milestone: a newly established evaluation method will be included in the construction contract for a next-generation crude oil tanker set to be delivered in March 2026. This contract will feature a guarantee clause for actual sea performance, ensuring that the vessel’s propulsion efficiency aligns with real-world conditions. By focusing on improving fuel efficiency during actual operations, this initiative represents a step forward in promoting sustainable shipping practices.
Understanding Actual Sea Performance
Traditionally, shipbuilding contracts have relied on “calm sea performance,” which assesses a vessel’s speed and horsepower in ideal weather conditions. However, real sea conditions often differ significantly from these controlled environments, making it challenging to predict a ship’s actual performance accurately. Recognizing this gap, NYK and JMU became pioneers in 2020 by introducing a guarantee for actual sea performance in contracts for two new crude oil tankers. Subsequent verification showed that the performance difference between the expected and actual results was minimal, validating their approach.
Building on this success, NYK and JMU have developed a more precise method for analyzing actual sea performance. This involves assessing how various factors, such as hull shape and ocean conditions, influence a vessel’s efficiency in real-time. The new tanker contract, incorporating the actual sea performance guarantee, aims to enhance these evaluations even further.
Looking Ahead: Future Developments in Maritime Efficiency
The crude oil tanker scheduled for delivery in March 2026 will benefit from advanced evaluation methods for actual sea performance. NYK and JMU will conduct joint verification during the first year of operation to compare the guaranteed speed/power curve against actual performance data. This new contract also includes an innovative incentive mechanism that ensures both parties benefit based on performance levels, making it a more sophisticated guarantee framework than previous contracts.
