Navigating the EU ETS

This year, the maritime industry faces transformative regulations with the implementation of the European Union’s Emission Trading System (EU ETS). This initiative represents a pivotal shift in how we address carbon emissions across our operations. At Seatrans Chemical Tankers, we have been proactively preparing for these changes, focusing on transparency, digitalisation, and a commitment to ensure our customers face correct costs related to their emissions.

Understanding the EU ETS: A cap-and-trade system

The EU ETS is built on a “cap and trade” principle, aiming to provide a financial incentive for the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The ultimate goal is ambitious yet critical: achieving zero emissions by 2050. In 2024, vessels over 5000 GT operating to/from and within the EU/EEA area will need to secure allowances for the CO2 emitted. This regulation has a phase-in period, starting at 40% in 2024 and reaching 100% by 2026.

Our approach

At Seatrans Chemical Tankers, we have extensively prepared for the EU ETS, prioritising environmental responsibility. Our approach to managing the costs of the EU allowance cost is designed to be fair, directly correlating with the cargo shipped.

Our commitment to digitalisation ensures accurate CO2 emissions tracking, reinforcing our dedication to transparency. Utilising precise data enables us to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and ultimately achieve lower emissions and greater sustainability.

Towards a greener future

Despite its financial implications, we perceive the EU ETS as a valuable catalyst for advancing zero-emission technologies within our industry. Our strategy extends beyond compliance, aiming to spearhead sustainable shipping practices.

Our efforts in preparation, transparency, and commitment to fair pricing set a responsible course in navigating these new regulatory waters. As we voyage towards the 2050 goal of zero emissions, it’s clear that a collaborative effort, innovative solutions, and a steadfast commitment to our planet’s future are essential.

For questions about ETS, please contact EU ETS Compliance Manager for Seatrans Chemical Tankers, Heidi Moldeklev at emissions@seatrans.no

Seatrans Group has agreed to purchase M/T Oriental Lotus

It is with great pleasure that we welcome the M/T Oriental Lotus to the Seatrans family.
The vessel is well known to us, as it has been on time-charter to Seatrans Chemical Tankers since November 2021.

M/T Oriental Lotus is a 14,281 DWT stainless steel chemical carrier with 20 segregations and N2 generator. She was built at Asakawa Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. in 2010. Seatrans will be taking delivery of the vessel in Europe during May 2023 and the vessel will be renamed M/T Trans Tind. With this addition, Seatrans Chemical Tankers is taking important steps to remain long-term committed to our customers serving the route between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. The purchase of M/T Oriental Lotus, and our two new builds arriving quarter three and four 2023, will lower our fleet age profile and increase flexibility across the fleet.

Rotorsail update

Last year, Sea-Cargo installed two rotor sails and a battery pack on the roro vessel SC Connector. This innovative project is groundbreaking in the shipping industry due to the size of the rotor sails in relation to the ship size, and the transformation towards greener maritime operations.

“The rotor sails on SC Connector use available renewable energy. Wind forces are used directly for propulsion without the conversion losses associated with other energy carriers. The project is a success and we see a 25% reduction of greenhouse emissions.”

Johan Christian Hvide, CTO, Seatrans

“The goal of this project has been to design more environmentally friendly vessels by combining several existing technologies. On some stretches we combine the sails with electric power from batteries, and with favourable wind conditions we can sail without the use of the main engine. As a combination, it is a fantastic solution. The energy we use is 100% renewable and clean.”

Ole Sævild, CEO, Sea-Cargo