Alpha Marine Consulting, lomarlabs, MARIN and C-Job Naval Architects have launched WAVE, a new maritime innovation cluster aimed at helping shipowners test and integrate emerging decarbonisation technologies. The alliance will focus on technologies at Technology Readiness Levels 3 to 7, where solutions need further vessel integration, testing and operational evidence before wider adoption.
The Worldwide Alliance for Vessel Decarbonization & Energy Transition, announced in Hamburg on 15 September, brings together shipowner access, marine engineering, naval architecture, independent testing and funding expertise.
The model is designed around a practical issue facing shipowners. A technology can demonstrate technical potential in a laboratory or controlled setting, yet still need to work through vessel interfaces, safety requirements, classification, operational constraints and onboard installation.
WAVE aims to bring those requirements into the process earlier. The group will identify suitable technologies, assess their maturity and define routes for onboard integration and validation. It will also help shipowners identify regional, European and international subsidy programmes that can support pilot installations.
The shipowner perspective comes through lomarlabs, which draws on the operational experience and vessel access of its parent company, Lomar. Alpha Marine Consulting brings marine engineering, naval architecture and supervision expertise, while MARIN provides research and independent assessment. C-Job contributes ship design and naval architecture capabilities.
Georgios Kouris, R&D Manager, Alpha Marine Consulting, said: “Innovation creates real value when it moves beyond concept and becomes part of everyday vessel operations.”
Patrick Hooijmans, senior Project Manager, MARIN, said: “Assessment of solutions in real operations. WAVE puts solutions to the test by combining shipowners, design offices and independent evaluators knowledge with the aim of sharing outcomes and gained experience with her partners.”
WAVE is now accepting membership applications from organisations across the maritime ecosystem. The steering committee will assess applicants and maintain a non-competing partner structure.
