DNV GL, Singapore MPA Agree to Promote R&D in Autonomous Systems and Intelligent Shipping

Shipping vessels and oil tankers line up on the eastern coast of Singapore in this July 22, 2015. REUTERS/Edgar Su/Files

International classification society DNV GL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to promote R&D and innovation in the maritime industry, including, among other things, intelligent shipping systems such as autonomous ships and drones for maritime purposes.

The MoU extends an existing collaboration between the two organizations by another three years and expands it into many areas, including ‘intelligent shipping’ systems and green technology in port operations.

Intelligent shipping systems, such as autonomous vessels and drones for maritime purposes, as well as the use of data analytics, could help enhance safety and sustainability of shipping and port activities, DNV GL says. As far as green technology, the MoU will seek to examine the potential use of energy saving and emission-reduction technology in ports, particularly in terms of infrastructure, processes, and harbourcraft. Other projects are designed to cut emissions and boost fuel efficiency in port operations, including research into LNG as an alternative fuel.

“I am excited to renew the MOU with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore” says DNV GL President and CEO Remi Eriksen. “DNV GL is strongly committed to innovation and promote new technologies and solutions for safe, efficient and sustainable shipping. Five per cent of our annual group revenue is harvested in a wide set of R&D projects – often together with our customers and trusted partners. By re-signing the MOU, we will reinforce and strengthen the good cooperation with the forward looking maritime industry and research institutes in Singapore.”

MPA’s Chief Executive, Andrew Tan, said: “MPA is pleased to renew the MOU with DNV GL to include autonomous technologies, intelligent shipping and data analytics. This is aligned with Singapore’s efforts to keep pace with developments in smart ships and ports as the industry moves towards adopting smarter shipping systems to achieve higher standards of efficiency, productivity and safety.”