Size matters

THE POWER OF TECHNOLOGY

“Technology is a key differentiator when it comes to achieving greater efficiency and maximising performance on large merchant vessels,” comments Zaitoun. “We choose suppliers we know we can rely on – those with both a proven track record and the stability to be with us for the long term future – but also those that are prepared to invest heavily in R&D to find innovative solutions that deliver a competitive edge.”

UASC selected Kongsberg Maritime to provide a Full Picture solution for its newbuilds, delivering integrated vessel control systems for navigation, communication, and automation for machinery and propulsion systems (K-Chief). The contract also includes a state of the art, Vessel Performance System, which monitors and provides accurate, detailed decision support advice for operators regarding energy efficiency, fuel usage and optimal sailing. Together these systems integrate with the electronically controlled main engines, maximising fuel efficiency, while reducing noise, vibration and carbon emissions by automatically controlling fuel consumption in line with sailing speed and conditions.

“This kind of advanced solution allows us to be proactive in our decision making, and this leads to cost, as well as environmental, savings,” Zaitoun says.

“These days, when competition is fierce and margins are so
small, this technology gives us greater control of the vessels and
that can reduce operational costs, to the benefit of all our stakeholders.”

HIGHS AND LOWS

Of course, ‘these days’ fuel prices have also plummeted to new lows. Does that not influence UASC’s thinking when it comes to the current fleet renewal? Is efficiency still King when operational costs are softer?

Zaitoun’s feelings are crystal clear: “We are building these ships
for optimal operations over the next 20 to 25 years. The fuel cost may be low now, but no one knows what’s going to happen over the course of the next few years, or even months.

“Currently fuel accounts for almost half of the total operational cost, so it makes economical sense to control that expenditure as much as possible. All shipowners have to control costs, and UASC is no exception.”

Where the firm is perhaps exceptional is in its commitment to
the very highest environmental standards. Cost, as outlined by Zaitoun, is important, but so is its image as an eco frontrunner.

Zaitoun, as with all the UASC management team, speak as one on the issue of the environment. Jørn Hinge, the company President and Chief Executive Officer, noted in 2015 that “providing environmentally friendly transport solutions and recognising environmental initiatives around the globe are no longer a choice; they are a necessity for both our organisation and our customers.”

Zaitoun explains more: “The future is uncertain, but what we do know is that environmental issues and challenges are going to increase in gravity and scope. We all have a duty to mitigate potential environmental impact in whatever way we can and that commitment is clearly illustrated in all our newbuilds.

“We are not here for the short-term. UASC, and all its customers, are interested in sustainable industry and responsible operations.

We do everything we can to ensure that, from helping our customers monitor their carbon footprints through greater transparency and accountability, to enhancing our own bunker efficiency, targeting port punctuality, and conducting regular energy efficiency training across the organisation, co-ordinated by the HSSEQ department.

“Eco-efficiency defines what we do,” he concludes, adding: “Everybody benefits from that.”

The Barzan is now setting out to ply the Asia-Europe trades as part of UASC’s Ocean 3 services. There, enabled by the firm’s commitment, and assisted by Kongsberg Maritime technology, it will deliver “the industry’s lowest per-container levels of CO2 output.” And that, without a shadow of doubt, is really big news