Azipod propulsion ticks all the boxes in the growing retrofit market

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced its new EEXI and CII regulations at the start of last year with the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by 40% by 2030. The new rules apply to all cargo, Ro-Pax and cruise vessels over 5,000gt and include an annual emissions ratings system that will get increasingly stricter year-on-year. Many vessels across different classes will struggle to meet the increasingly tighter regulations. In addition, poor CII emissions ratings for ships will likely have adverse effects for vessel operators as charterers and financiers will favour more sustainable vessels. Hence the regulation will serve to strengthen the green economy across all aspects of the industry.

Regeneration game

These changes have sparked a surge of enquiries from shipowners looking at ABB Azipod electric propulsion as a potential cost-effective retrofitting solution to keep ageing ships on the right side of compliance and to extend their lifespan. “We have seen a rapid increase since the turn of the year in the number of enquiries for retrofits using our Azipod propulsion system,” says Toni Roiha, Global Sales Manager, Marine Propulsion Services, ABB Marine & Ports. “Azipod propulsion ticks all the boxes in the growing retrofit market. Azipods have become a commercially attractive retrofit option for existing vessels as shipowners seek ways to comply with new emissions regulations — there is a lot of potential.”

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The Azipod has become a commercially attractive retrofit option for existing vessels