How to support trawlers in their energy transition?

context

The energy-intensive fishing sector accounts for approximately 4% of greenhouse gas emissions from global food production (Parker, 2018). Beyond the climate impact, the costs associated with fuel and the upgrading of energy generation systems are a source of concern for professionals in the sector.

Indeed, fishing vessel fleets are preparing for environmental regulations, in particular by complying with the IMO Tier III regulations of the MARPOL Convention (which came into force on 1 January 2021). For the operation of engines, it involves the implementation of a reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in areas with controlled emissions (SECA zone) including the Channel and the North Sea. With the prospect of operating costs increased by the need to optimize energy generation systems on board ships. These are the first steps to the emergence of more stringent standards in the near future.

Fishing boat named Oban Star sailing through the water with seagulls flying above and a rock dike in the background.

The project therefore aims to support trawlers in their energy transition by reducing emissions of pollutants and/or greenhouse gases from trawlers, in a viable economic environment. The objective is to be able to reproduce this type of study on different types of fishing vessels.

At present, for safety reasons and in accordance with current maritime standards, only diesel or diesel-electric engines are authorized for fishing vessels, including trawlers concerned.The present study could be a point of support to advance discussions and propose changes in standards and regulations governing and authorizing the use of alternative fuels for fishing as part of their energy transition.

AUDITing the ENERGY IMPACT OF AN ARTISANAL fishing TRAWLER

The STREAM project aims to carry out an in-depth analysis of the operational profiles of an artisanal fishing trawler —an especially energy-intensive segment— in order to assess its energy and environmental performance. Are you interested in this project?

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approach

OSE is setting up a comprehensive analysis of the real uses of the trawler in order to identify ways to improve energy and assess more sustainable alternatives.

Analysis of operational profiles

Thanks to measured data and business expertise, OSE analyzes the operational profiles of the trawler: typical consumption, activity phases, associated emissions. These profiles make it possible to precisely understand the energy reality depending on the situation (deployed trawl, low speed, return to port, etc.).

Assessment of alternative fuels

An economic and environmental feasibility study compares different energy architectures, including the integration of alternative fuels or an energy transition to hydrogen or natural gas (via retrofit). This analysis makes it possible to identify the most relevant solutions to reduce emissions and consumption.

On-board energy optimization

Alternative energy production and conversion systems are compared with real profiles in order to estimate potential gains. The objective: to propose ways of energy optimization that can be directly activated on board.

Automated energy audit

OSE is developing AI methods and post-processing tools to automate the energy audit, making it repeatable and reliable. Statistical and physical analyses make it possible to identify the levers for improving performance.

Visualization and recommendations

An ergonomic interface presents the results in the form of a dashboard for clear and operational management. Finally, OSE provides optimization perspectives and recommendations adapted to the real uses of the ship.

methodology

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Two large white machines placed on a brown surface in a wooden room with a window and a disinfectant gel dispenser.

Data acquisition and centralization

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Data from generators and sensors installed on board are collected using CEMS technology and centralized in the DataMiner box provided by EODev. This embedded system temporarily stores information before regularly transmitting it to a server for permanent archiving.

Two large black exhaust chimneys on a blue ship under a clear blue sky.

NOx temperature and emission sensors

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CRMT installed sensors at the ship's exhaust to measure the temperature and the concentration of nitrogen oxides (NOx). These measurements feed into the acquisition platform for a detailed analysis of emissions and operating conditions.

Map showing the colored path of a ship along the coast, with a box showing longitude, latitude, speed, and a timestamp.

Detection of operational phases

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The position and speed of the vessel make it possible to automatically identify its fishing and transit phases. By combining this data with engine power and weather conditions, it becomes possible to precisely quantify the consumption and emissions associated with each phase.

Cargo ship sailing near a grassy shore under a misty sky.

Analysis and validation of consumption levels

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The measured fuel flows are compared to the values provided by the engine manufacturer in order to verify the consistency and calibration of the data. This control guarantees the reliability of the measurements before the construction of the performance models.