Page 210 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2024

FLEET OPTIMISATION

Vasileios G. Petousis advocates the prioritisation of environmental sustainability by all
companies, emphasising that they can achieve operational excellence while simultaneously
reducing their environmental impact.

SUCCESS IN FLEET

OPTIMISATION

DEPENDS ON

ORGANISATIONAL

CULTURE, LEADERSHIP,

AND VISION

What are the practical steps involved in a company’s fleet optimisation?
Fleet optimisation within the shipping sector is a multifaceted endeavour
that demands the strategic alignment of operational precision, tech-
nological innovation, and a commitment to environmental excellence.
Across various shipping companies, this approach epitomises a holis-
tic strategy focused on maintaining profitability over time while also
responsibly following global sustainability goals. From the perspective
of shipowners, the crux of fleet optimisation strategies lies in route plan-
ning and leveraging advanced analytics and meteorological insights to
define the most economically viable and ecologically prudent pathways.
Simultaneously, substantial investments in state-of-the-art fuel-effi-
cient technologies, including energy-saving devices, hull and underwa-
ter cleaning enhancements, and propulsion system refinement, are of
paramount importance.
Adherence to rigorous and proactive maintenance schedules and care-
ful performance monitoring are also crucial for maintaining optimal
vessel efficiency and meeting environmental mandates. That includes
improving cargo handling to speed up port turnarounds and reduce
fuel consumption. Additionally, investments in sustainable propulsion
technologies, like alternative marine fuels, demonstrate a commitment
to revolutionising maritime propulsion for existing vessels. This initiative
seeks to demonstrate the safety and viability of Sustainable Alternative
Fuels (SAFs) in seaborne transportation, with a particular emphasis on
hydrogen as the primary energy source.
To support these efforts, initiatives such as crew training underscore the
significance of cultivating a culture of energy consciousness and ensuring
by Vasileios G. Petousis, regulatory compliance throughout operations. Furthermore, strict adher-
Energy & Sustainability Manager ence to regulatory standards and goals, such as the IMO’s ‘Initial 2023
at Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp.
Strategy’, including the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and

204