Tanker Sector Navigates Decarbonization: Safety, Readiness, and Fuel Diversity Take Center Stage

The tanker sector is closely monitoring fuel options, exercising caution regarding readiness, safety, and regulatory support, according to BIMCO, the world’s largest international shipping association. As the industry progresses deeper into its decarbonization journey, ensuring the safe, scalable, and practical deployment of diverse fuel alternatives has become a pressing concern for tanker operators.

On June 12, 2025, members from across the tanker industry convened at the 10th BIMCO Tanker Safety Network meeting. This forum facilitated a vital exchange of insights on operational safety within the evolving landscape of alternative fuels, complemented by interactive live polls.

Over half of the respondents (52%) identified ammonia as the most viable fuel pathway by 2040, signaling growing interest in its zero-carbon potential despite well-documented safety challenges. When queried about top operational concerns, 38% highlighted bunkering compatibility issues, while 28% pointed to onboard safety risks, underscoring that practical implementation remains a significant hurdle.

Confidence in the safety of alternative fuels was most strongly associated with technological maturity and system reliability, a choice made by 57% of participants. However, reported readiness levels painted a different picture: 69% indicated they were only moderately prepared to handle alternative fuels, with planning underway but full operational capability still under development.

A striking 80% of attendees flagged "all of the above" when asked about key training gaps. This highlights a comprehensive need for improvements across STCW revisions, safety culture, and design awareness.

Views on nuclear propulsion were divided, with 52% considering it viable but acknowledging significant acceptance and regulatory barriers. Finally, 56% of respondents identified the lack of guidance on inherently safer ship design as the most pressing regulatory shortfall. This collective data underscores a shared apprehension: while decarbonization is an inevitable trajectory, the current safety and training ecosystem is not yet adequately equipped for the task.

During one presentation, ammonia was emphasized as a promising yet demanding option, necessitating meticulous management of its toxicity, clear risk communication, and robust emergency procedures.

Liam Blackmore, Principal Engineer at Lloyd’s Register, stressed that a credible transition to zero-emission fuels hinges on embedding safety considerations into every phase of implementation. This includes everything from initial vessel design and bunkering infrastructure to comprehensive crew training and progressive regulatory development. He further elaborated on ongoing regulatory work at the IMO, noting that while amendments to MARPOL Annex VI have been approved in principle, crucial supporting guidelines are still under development. These include guidelines on lifecycle GHG intensity, safety management systems, and zero- or near-zero (ZNZ) reward mechanisms. The presenter also drew attention to the critical need for "inherently safer design" principles and the urgent revision of safety management frameworks, such as the ISM Code, to accurately reflect fuel-specific risks. He concluded by emphasizing that a just and equitable transition will demand not only technical solutions but also an inclusive safety culture and global alignment on training and operational standards.

The Unseen Backbone: Why Robust Cabling is Critical for Maritime Decarbonization

The successful adoption of these complex alternative fuels, alongside the integration of advanced safety and operational systems, relies heavily on a less visible but equally critical component: electrical cables. In the maritime sector, especially with the introduction of new fuel types and propulsion systems, the demands on cabling are escalating.

Power and Data Transmission: Modern vessels are increasingly reliant on sophisticated electronic systems for navigation, propulsion control, cargo management, and safety monitoring. High-performance power cables are essential for transmitting the significant electrical loads required by advanced electric or hybrid propulsion systems, energy storage solutions (like batteries for peak shaving or auxiliary power), and specialized equipment for handling new fuels. Simultaneously, data cables—including fiber optic cables—are vital for high-speed, reliable communication between sensors, control units, and bridge systems. This data integrity is paramount for monitoring fuel consumption, engine performance, and critical safety parameters in real-time, especially when dealing with volatile or cryogenic fuels.

Harsh Environment Durability: Marine environments are notoriously challenging. Cables must withstand constant vibration, extreme temperature fluctuations, exposure to saltwater, oil, and corrosive chemicals. Halogen-free, flame-retardant (HFFR) and low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) cables are becoming standard, crucial for preventing the spread of fire and reducing toxic smoke emissions in enclosed spaces, which is especially important with new fuel types that may pose unique fire risks. Specialized submersible cables might even be required for certain underwater sensor applications or power connections to innovative hull designs.

Fuel-Specific Applications: For example, vessels using LNG or ammonia require highly durable cables designed to operate safely in cryogenic temperatures or in environments where there's a risk of exposure to hazardous gases. Instrumentation cables are key for monitoring pressure, temperature, and flow rates within fuel supply lines and storage tanks, providing critical data for safe operation. The integrity of these cables directly impacts the reliability of safety shut-off systems and leak detection, which are non-negotiable for hazardous fuels.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): As more electronic systems are integrated, EMC-compliant cables with proper shielding become crucial to prevent interference that could disrupt critical navigation or control systems. This is particularly relevant when dealing with high-power electrical systems associated with alternative propulsion.

Without reliable, purpose-built cable infrastructure, the advanced systems designed to facilitate safe and efficient alternative fuel use simply cannot function optimally. Cables are the literal lifelines of these next-generation vessels, transmitting power, data, and critical safety signals across the entire ship.

Advancing Maritime Connections with Feichun Cable

At Feichun Cable, we understand the evolving demands of the maritime industry. We specialize in providing high-performance, robust cabling solutions engineered to meet the stringent safety and operational requirements of modern vessels. Our comprehensive range of marine-grade cables, including power, control, data, and instrumentation cables, are designed for extreme durability and reliability in harsh marine environments. Committed to supporting the industry's transition to sustainable shipping, Feichun Cable offers products compliant with international maritime standards, ensuring the critical connections that power safer and more efficient operations.

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