Simplifying the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)
The shipping industry is undergoing a radical transformation focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Index (CII) are key factors influencing this development.
The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) focuses on establishing technical standards to ensure that ships meet specific energy efficiency requirements, while the Carbon Intensity Index (CII) assesses a ship’s operational performance to promote continuous improvement in carbon emissions.
In this article, we will explore the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), highlight its importance, and outline how to achieve compliance if your ship is currently non-compliant with EEXI requirements.
What is the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)?
The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) is a metric used to assess the energy efficiency of existing ships. This applies to all ships over 400 gross tonnage and is part of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s broader strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least 40% by 2030, compared to 2008 levels. The Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI) takes effect on January 1, 2023. The EEXI serves as a benchmark for assessing the energy efficiency of ships.
The EEXI is similar to the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), but the EEDI applies to ships constructed on or after January 1, 2013, while the EEXI applies retroactively to the existing fleet.
How is the EEXI calculated?
All EEXI calculations must be conducted in accordance with the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) guidelines. To comply with the EEXI, each ship must implement technological or operational improvements. Here’s a brief explanation of how it works:
Achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI): This represents your ship’s actual energy efficiency. It is calculated based on the ship’s design and operational data.
Required EEXI: This is the standard or target that your ship must achieve in accordance with the guidelines and requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It is based on the baseline achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEDI) and adjusted by a reduction factor depending on the ship type.
The goal is to ensure that your ship’s achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) is equal to or better than the required EEI.
Guidance on calculating the achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI)
The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) has adopted guidance on the MEPC EEXI Regulation: MEPC Resolution Index and Guidance related to MARPOL Annex VI (imo.org).
Guidance on the method for calculating the achieved Energy Efficiency Index (MEPC.350(78))
This guidance provides a comprehensive methodology for calculating the achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI).
The standards set out in this guidance differ from those in the Guidelines for the Calculation of the Achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEDI).
Guidelines for Survey and Certification of Achieved Energy Efficiency Index (MEPC.351(78))
This guideline explains the survey and certification process for the Achieved Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI).
Details the content required in the EEXI technical documentation and the additional information required to verify the EEXI.
Guidelines for Shaft/Engine Power Limiting Systems and the Use of Power Reserves (MEPC.335(76))
This guideline specifies the technical and operational requirements that SHaPoLi/EPL systems must meet to comply with the EEXI and power reserve use requirements. This guideline lists the content required to be included in the Ship Management Manual (OMM).
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Key Steps to Compliance
Fleet Assessment and EEXI Calculation
First, assess your fleet to understand the current energy efficiency of each ship.
Use EEXI calculation tools provided by classification societies, which can help identify ships that do not meet the required energy efficiency standards and require modification. You may consider working with a professional service provider, such as AZOLLA, which offers comprehensive EEXI calculation services, technical dossier preparation, and OMM documentation. AZOLLA’s experts can help ensure your vessel meets the required energy efficiency standards.
Technical Modifications
If a vessel does not meet the required EEXI, modifications may be necessary. Common modifications include:
Overrun – Engine Power Limitation (EPL) and Permanent Power Limitation (PPL): Reducing the engine’s maximum power output.
Energy Efficiency Technologies (EET):
- Propeller Modifications: MEWIS ducting, propeller optimization, controllable pitch (CPP) propellers, propeller head fins, etc.
- Hull Modifications: Blower modifications, air lubrication, and hull form optimization.
- Rudder Modifications: Energy-saving rudders and rudder lights.
- Pre-rotation devices.
- Waste Heat Recovery Systems: Exhaust gas economizers and turbogenerators.
- Advanced Energy Management Systems.
- Wind-Assisted Propulsion: Flettner rotors and kites.
- Air conditioning and refrigeration system upgrades, etc.
- Operational changes: Improving vessel usage to improve efficiency, such as:
- Speed optimization,
- Voyage planning and route optimization,
- Improved dynamic balancing,
- Regular hull and propeller cleaning,
- Engine performance monitoring and tuning,
- Improved energy management,
- Fuel switching,
- Energy awareness training for crew members,
- Use of LED lighting,
- Improved thermal insulation, etc.
Technological innovations, such as:
- Hybrid and electric engines
- To meet energy efficiency requirements, various technological innovations are constantly evolving, such as hybrid and electric propulsion systems, fuel cell technology, and digital twins.
- These improvements can help your vessel achieve the required energy efficiency and comply with EEXI standards.
Certification and Documentation
Ensure that your classification society compiles and reviews the EEXI technical documentation, which contains the calculations and tests required for compliance with EEXI requirements and the Onboard Management Manual (OMM).
Vessels must undergo surveys to obtain International Energy Efficiency (IEE) certification.
Ongoing Monitoring and Compliance
After certification, continuous monitoring of vessel performance is crucial. Digital platforms from classification societies and other service providers can provide real-time energy efficiency data, helping you manage and address any issues immediately.
Training and Awareness Raising
Regular training for crew and shore personnel is crucial. Ensure everyone is familiar with EEXI regulations and best practices for maintaining energy efficiency. Follow industry forums and updates to stay informed of any regulatory changes.
Complying with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Ship Energy Efficiency Index (EEXI) Guidelines
In addition to complying with EEXI, ships must also adhere to the guidelines of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC). This includes developing and updating a Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP). This plan outlines strategies for improving operational efficiency, such as:
Optimal Voyage Planning: Planning routes to minimize fuel consumption.
Speed Reduction: Adjusting speed to reduce energy consumption.
Fossil Fuel Substitution: Using fuels with lower environmental impact whenever possible.
In summary, the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) is a key initiative to reduce the environmental impact of the shipping industry. Understanding and adhering to EEXI requirements is crucial for shipowners, ship managers, and maritime professionals, not only to comply with regulations but also to improve operational efficiency and support overall sustainability goals.
