Lighthouse Ship Management AS has steered one of its managed general cargo vessel coasters through a BERG Propulsion retrofit project which the Norwegian shortsea shipping service provider confirms has brought a 33% reduction in fuel costs.
The Torangsvåg-based fleet manager evaluated BERG’s options for optimizing energy use on board Terneskjaer, an 81m length 2,900 dwt general cargo ship owned by Bio Feeder AS. The project sought to cut fuel costs and emissions, while adding a new competitive edge to a vessel built in 2008.
Following a consultative process, Lighthouse selected a BERG retrofit package enabling the conversion of Terneskjaer to higher efficiency diesel-electric propulsion, with BERG integrating a new gearbox and two permanent magnet motors with its MPC800 control technology. The solution provider also optimized the blades on the ship’s existing BERG propeller to reflect changed operational needs, adding a nozzle to improve thrust - especially at lower speeds.
“A 33% reduction in fuel costs is highly significant and points to a secure future for a ship which has proved itself as a reliable performer in Norway’s demanding coastal sector for over 15 years,” said Lasse Øpstad, General Manager, Lighthouse Ship Management. “Managed prudently, ships built and maintained to Terneskjaer’s quality can comfortably surpass lower carbon requirements and compete effectively for years to come.” Lighthouse manages a wide range of ships for seven shipowners.
In securing lower nitrogen oxide emissions, the project was eligible to benefit from Norway’s NOx Fund, which allows owners tax breaks if they pay into a scheme to fund NOx reduction measures.
“There were several objectives for the Terneskjaer project, including improved performance, greater operational flexibility, lower NOx, decarbonization and increased lifetime,” said Magnus Thorén, Sales Manager - Energy Efficiency, BERG Propulsion. “However, energy efficiency is critical in every respect. We consulted closely with Lighthouse Management to evaluate the upgrade options and we are delighted that the trust of one of Norway’s leading ship managers has been wholly vindicated.”
