Berge Bulk announces world’s first retrofit installation of front-end generator on dry bulk vessel
Published by Alfred Hamer,
Editorial Assistant
Dry Bulk,
Berge Bulk has successfully completed the world’s first retrofit installation of the Renk Integrated Front-end Power System (IFPS) shaft generator on its vessel, Berge Dachstein, a 208 718 dwt Newcastlemax. This achievement supports Berge Bulk’s Maritime Marshall Plan for decarbonisation, which includes a focus on leveraging the latest maritime technology to improve carbon efficiency.
Innovative technology for greater efficiency
The Renk IFPS is an advanced front-end shaft generator system that takes power from the ship’s main engine crankshaft via a gearbox to produce electricity. As the main engine operates with a greater fuel efficiency than the auxiliary engines, this reduces the vessel’s overall fuel consumption and, in turn, reduces the ship’s emissions.
By using this system, Berge Dachstein is expected to save at least one tonne of fuel per day while the shaft generator is running. This translates to a reduction of over three tonnes of CO2 emissions per day, further supporting Berge Bulk’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Improving operations and cutting costs
Beyond fuel savings, the IFPS shaft generator reduces the need to run auxiliary engines while sailing. This means lesser maintenance needs and lower operational costs. With fewer operating hours, the auxiliary engines require fewer overhauls, leading to savings on spare parts and crew workload.
Berge Bulk’s Technical Director, Paolo Tonon, commented on the installation: “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.
Expanding the use of energy-saving technology
Following this success, Berge Bulk is moving ahead with its fleet-wide energy efficiency strategy. Berge Bulk plans to retrofit two more vessels with front-end shaft generators in 2025.
A step towards maritime decarbonisation
As the first company to retrofit the Renk IFPS shaft generator, Berge Bulk demonstrates its continued commitment to engage with new technologies in pursuit of increased efficiency in shipping. This initiative supports the company’s Maritime Marshall Plan for decarbonisation, which focuses on operational efficiency, cutting-edge technology, new fuels, and carbon capture.
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Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/shipping/11032025/berge-bulk-announces-worlds-first-retrofit-installation-of-front-end-generator-on-dry-bulk-vessel/
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