Maersk Broker Advisory Services (MBAS) said there has been strong interest in its new decarbonisation joint venture, not least from lenders and charterers.
The financial advisory arm of Danish shipbroker Maersk Broker is developing an artificial intelligence-based optimisation tool to help the industry reduce emissions.
The company has teamed up with management consultant giant McKinsey & Co for the project.
MBAS managing director Jesper Bo Hansen said the tool is being worked on for an autumn launch.
Data is king
He explained that McKinsey has access to a large data set on how other industries are navigating the energy transition.
He said MBAS is adding in its key data and knowledge from the maritime industry.
"This tool is going to be the most extensive data-based decarbonisation model in the industry, and we want to ensure that it will be useful for both small and medium-sized owners across all segments," Hansen told TradeWinds.
"We are currently engaging with shipowners and other relevant stakeholders within the maritime industry, and expect the tool to be up and running during the fall [autumn]."
Hansen said the initial stage has seen enquiries from many owners and other players.
Answers needed
MBAS has been told that companies are awaiting answers from regulators and fuel suppliers before they commit money to newbuildings that use alternative propulsion sources.
"There is an overwhelming interest in a tool that can assist shipowners to develop a cost-efficient decarbonisation strategy and take these decisions on a well-informed basis," Hansen said.
"Furthermore, we have had talks with charterers and financiers that are demanding shipowners have a clear idea on how they will decarbonise their fleets," he said.
Hansen argues that investors are also requesting that owners are aware of the cost and business implications of not doing anything.
MBAS believes the product will be relevant not just to owners and operators, but flag states, classification societies and technical suppliers as well.
Common interest
Hansen said Maersk Broker and McKinsey shared an interest in assisting the maritime industry in its decarbonisation journey.
"Our initial dialogue was centred around the common interest and a brainstorming on how we could best help the industry achieve its goals," he said.
Common ground was found in the idea of a fleet decarbonisation optimiser tool.
"We are very happy that McKinsey has chosen to spend resources in helping the maritime industry and, as a part of the Getting to Zero Coalition, we at Maersk Broker Advisory Services are very happy to offer a tool that can help the industry make the right investments to avoid stranded assets," Hansen said.
