Berge Bulk has completed the world’s “first” retrofit of a Renk integrated front-end power system (IFPS) shaft generator on its vessel, as part of its decarbonisation efforts.
Installed on the Berge Dachstein, a 208,718 deadweight tonnage (dwt) Newcastlemax, this initiative is a part of Berge Bulk’s Maritime Marshall Plan for decarbonisation, which prioritises the adoption of advanced maritime technology to enhance carbon efficiency.
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The advanced Renk IFPS shaft generator system harnesses power directly from the ship’s main engine crankshaft through a gearbox to generate electricity.
This process is said to be more fuel-efficient compared to auxiliary engines, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions for the vessel.
The Berge Dachstein is anticipated to save at least one tonne of fuel daily with the shaft generator operational, according to the company.
In addition to fuel savings, the IFPS shaft generator minimises the necessity to run auxiliary engines while at sea.
This translates to fewer engine overhauls, savings on spare parts, and a lighter workload for the crew.
Following the successful retrofit, Berge Bulk is planning to equip two additional vessels with front-end shaft generators in 2025 as part of its fleet-wide energy efficiency strategy.
Berge Bulk technical director Paolo Tonon said: “This retrofit marks another milestone in our decarbonisation journey. By integrating the Renk IFPS shaft generator into an existing vessel, we are proving that innovative technology can drive efficiency and reduce emissions across our fleet in a safe and reliable manner.”
Berge Bulk, an independent dry bulk owner, has grown from a 12-vessel operation in 2007 to managing a fleet of 90 vessels, totalling more than 15 million dwt.
The company has outlined a decarbonisation timeline with three key milestones, including achieving 100% offset of Scope 1 carbon emissions from 2025, constructing and operating a zero-emissions vessel by 2030, and reaching zero Scope One carbon emissions fleetwide by 2050.
In August 2024, Berge Bulk implemented Sofar Ocean’s Wayfinder platform across its fleet, including new wind-assisted vessels, to optimise voyages and improve fuel efficiency.
