Challenge

A major shipowner was developing two newbuild container vessels (9000 and 9200 TEU) amid rapidly evolving International Maritime Organization (IMO) emission regulations. With stricter emissions requirements ahead, the client needed to identify technologies that would keep the vessels compliant over their full service life.

This required clear guidance on machinery, hull features and systems that could deliver real fuel savings, reduce emissions and support long term competitiveness, while remaining aligned with future decarbonisation goals. The key questions were which Carbon Capture Systems (CCS) technologies were mature enough for onboard installation; and which Energy Saving Devices (ESD) & Energy Efficient Technologies (EET) could be integrated without affecting vessel performance. With technologies at varying stages of readiness, the client needed clarity on maturity, integration and operational impacts to support compliance planning and investment decisions.

Approach 

CCS Review: Six CCS concepts from different providers were reviewed, covering amine absorption, liquefaction, solid binding and solid adsorption methods. The assessment considered onboard equipment requirements, space and power demands, and CO₂ handling arrangements. Installation aspects, approval status and progress of pilot projects were also evaluated.

ESDs & EETs Review: The review started with an assessment of the shipyard pocket plans for the 9000 TEU and 9200 TEU designs, followed by an evaluation of key machinery systems, including dual fuel engine options, scrubberarrangements, shaft generators and boil off gas management. It also examined hull optimisation measures, coatings, aerodynamic shielding and propulsion improvements such as wake ducts, pre-swirl stators and twisted rudders. The work identified technology gaps and defined upgrade pathways to support future fuel and efficiency requirements.

Solution

Lloyd’s Register (LR) Advisory Newbuild Services team provided a focused technical advisory package covering:

  • CCS – A review of six commercially available CCS solutions, outlining their operating principles, onboard equipment requirements, CO₂ handling 
    arrangements, and readiness for installation on the newbuild vessels.
  • ESDs & EETs – An assessment of ESDs and EETs suited to the vessel type and operating profile, considering fuel saving potential, integration complexity, system compatibility and industry uptake.

The work gave the client clear visibility of efficiency gains and decarbonisation options, supporting sound design choices for the newbuild programme.

Key activities & outputs

CCS: The study compared six CCS technologies, outlining their operating principles, onboard arrangements, and suitability for integration into the two newbuild designs. It also assessed the maturity of each solution, from commercially proven systems to those at Approval in Principle or pilot trial stage. This helped identify the options suitable for adoption and those requiring further technical validation before consideration.

Energy Efficiency Measures: The study reviewed energy efficiency options suited to the vessels operating profiles, including hybrid energy storage, hull optimisation, air lubrication and waste heat recovery. Methane abatement for LNG fueled designs and emerging industry trends were also considered. Recommendations covered propulsion & hull improvements, digital optimisation & energy management systems, fuel transition pathways and a summary of CAPEX and OPEX impacts.

Key client benefits

For both Advisory projects, the client gained a clear view of efficiency and carbon reduction technologies relevant to the newbuild program. The work identified ESD and EET solutions best suited to the vessels hull forms and operating profiles, while reducing uncertainty around CCS options at different stages of development. This supported stronger early design decisions, helped avoid later cost impacts and aligned the projects with upcoming IMO emission requirements. It also strengthened the client’s position in discussions with shipyards, engine manufacturers and CCS providers.

Impact on customer's business operations 

The work strengthened design confidence by helping align the vessel specifications with long term emissions requirements. It improved operational efficiency by identifying measures to reduce fuel consumption and enhance propulsion performance. Regulatory readiness was increased through clearer planning for upcoming IMO emissions and carbon intensity standards. LR Advisory Newbuild Services’ assessment also clarified CCS integration needs covering space and energy demand, supporting future considerations. Overall, the customer gained better long term predictability through improved forecasting of fuel and compliance related operating expenses.

Conclusion

LR Advisory Newbuild Services team delivered a strong basis for designing vessels that are efficient, compliant and prepared for future emissions requirements. By aligning proven energy saving measures with a clear understanding of emerging CCS options, the client is better positioned to meet tightening decarbonisation targets. The outcome supports immediate operational improvements while providing direction during a period of rapid regulatory change.

Other applications

Applicable across different vessel types:

  • Suitable for owners considering alternative fuel or CCS in newbuilds
  • Supports operators planning mid-life efficiency upgrades
  • Useful for shipyards integrating CCS or high efficiency features into standard designs
  • Relevant for charterers assessing long-term emissions performance of marine assets