Marine sustainability is a critical issue that needs to be addressed by the industry to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort towards carbon neutrality. Johan Inden, President of Volvo Penta, joined us during CES 2024 to discuss the concept of taking incremental steps towards sustainability in the marine industry.
The marine industry needs to embark on the journey towards carbon neutrality and decarbonization. Volvo Penta has pledged to become a net-zero company by 2050, aligning with the science-based target for reducing carbon emissions. The challenge lies in finding practical solutions that can be implemented in the industry, particularly for vessels that rely on longer journeys and cannot solely depend on battery power.
Volvo Penta is taking incremental steps towards sustainability by developing a highly efficient propulsion system. Their pod system, which offers 30% fuel savings compared to traditional shaft installations, is a step towards reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Furthermore, their engine system allows for flexibility in power sources, with the option to incorporate electric engines, green fuels such as HVO, and even fuel cells.
One of the key solutions is the use of flexible propulsion systems that allow for the electrification of the entire system over time. By using a pod system with multiple smaller engines, rather than a few large engines, boats can achieve significant fuel savings. Additionally, a software layer allows for the precise control of engine power, further reducing fuel consumption. These steps alone can lead to a 30-50% reduction in fuel consumption.
In addition to efficient propulsion systems, Volvo Penta is also exploring the use of sustainable fuels, better battery capacity, and the potential for fuel cells in the future. By combining these technologies, boats can move towards zero emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment.
The response from boat manufacturers to these sustainable power solutions has been positive, with many companies recognizing the need to drive towards sustainability in the marine industry. Commercial operators, in particular, are leading the way in adopting these technologies to reduce their carbon footprint.
Challenges are faced by larger vessels, such as container ships, which require a significant amount of power to operate. While the transition to fully sustainable power sources may be more challenging for these types of vessels, incremental steps can still be taken to reduce their carbon footprint. For instance, incorporating hybrid systems or alternative fuels can help to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, even on larger ships.
In conclusion, the concept of incremental steps towards marine sustainability is crucial for the industry to make progress towards carbon neutrality. By implementing practical solutions, such as efficient propulsion systems, flexible power sources, and alternative fuels, companies like Volvo Penta are paving the way for a more sustainable future in the marine industry. It is through these incremental steps that the industry can work towards reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner and greener environment for future generations.
For those interested in learning more about Volvo Penta's sustainable power solutions, their website serves as a valuable resource. Additionally, the company can be found at various marine fairs around the world, where they showcase their latest innovations.
Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.
Todd is the CEO of RawVoice / Blubrry - a podcast media company that represents 105,000 Audio and Video podcasters in which his company provides advertising opportunities, media distribution/hosting, podcast media statistics and other services. He is a podcast advertising specialist. Executing podcast advertising deals with a variety of national vendors for the past 13 years. Todd was responsible for bringing GoDaddy into the Podcast Advertising Space as one of the first podcast advertisers in 2005.
