Power & Sustainability explores the future of sustainable energy within the maritime sector, providing our members with insights and discussion on emerging technologies, practical solutions and policy developments.
You can expect topics such as renewable energy innovations, energy efficiency strategies and alternative fuels.
Finite-element simulations are improving understanding of submarine survivability during training-torpedo impacts. Validated against experimental data, the analysis assessed pressure-hull responses at different strike speeds and found only limited permanent deformation at higher velocities. The results suggest operational capability would remain unaffected, helping reduce risk and inform safer training practices today.
An all-electric submarine concept is challenging traditional underwater operations. Designed to recharge through offshore wind infrastructure and operate without conventional fuels, the Renewable concept explores long-endurance battery propulsion for regional missions. The study highlights innovative energy integration, operational feasibility, and emerging possibilities for lower-emission naval capabilities ahead in coming decades.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries the frames of a steel ship were stood up on the keel like those of a wooden ship, and the plates attached later. Frames had to be shaped to match the curves of the hull design. Each one was heated in a forge and then hammered or jacked to match the shape of its template. In late 19th century, it was not easy fairing the hull. Flexible sticks, called battens, were used for fairing the lines, i.e. checking the
Predicting submarine manoeuvring behaviour is a critical foundation of lifecycle safety management. By improving understanding of vessel response and control characteristics, designers can better assess operational risks, support safety assurance, and inform safer decisions throughout design, operation, maintenance and capability evolution for submarines operating in demanding underwater environments worldwide today.
Realistic testing methods are advancing wind-powered vessel development. Using a sensor-rich scale model of Oceanbird, researchers gathered high-quality manoeuvring and aerodynamic data in free-sailing conditions. The work demonstrates improved evaluation of sailing ship behaviour, including zigzag performance, while strengthening validation techniques for future wind-assisted and fully wind-powered designs globally today.
Rondout Riverport 2040 presents a vision for transforming Hudson Valley waterfronts through sustainable maritime commerce, heritage preservation and clean technology innovation. By linking communities, businesses and working ports, the strategy promotes economic vitality, equitable transition beyond fossil fuels, regional collaboration and resilient long-term prosperity for Kingston, Esopus residents and stakeholders.
Wind-tunnel research is refining the performance of rotating-cylinder propulsion systems. Detailed aerodynamic measurements revealed spanwise flow effects, drag growth, and interactions between adjacent cylinders that reduce thrust efficiency at certain wind angles. The findings improve understanding of rotor-sail behaviour, supporting more accurate designs and enhanced wind-assisted vessel performance worldwide today.
New model-testing methodologies are helping designers assess wind-powered vessels with greater confidence at early development stages. By using controllable fans to replicate sail forces, researchers evaluated seakeeping, manoeuvrability, and ship dynamics under realistic conditions. The approach strengthens design validation, reduces uncertainty, and supports the advancement of innovative wind-propelled shipping globally.
Evaluating wind propulsion investments requires balancing performance, emissions and economics. Using extensive model-test and CFD databases, the SEAMAN Winds tool predicts vessel efficiency, carbon reductions, compliance benefits, fuel savings and payback periods across real trading routes. The methodology enables evidence-based decisions, helping operators identify the most suitable technologies strategically today.
Comparative modelling is improving confidence in wind-assisted propulsion adoption. Using validated performance prediction methods, researchers assessed sail technologies, aerodynamic interactions, and vessel dynamics under realistic operating conditions. The findings reveal how modelling fidelity and sail selection influence efficiency, guiding retrofit decisions, design optimization, and emissions reduction strategies globally today ahead.
Achieving low-carbon shipping requires rapid technological and behavioural transformation. Combining expert-informed scenarios with quantitative modelling, the analysis maps a pathway toward 90% emissions reduction by 2050 through hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and wind propulsion. Success depends on strong climate policy, accelerated innovation, and widespread adoption of new operational practices across sectors.
Norsepower’s Rotor Sails are demonstrating how mature wind-assist technology can deliver verified emissions reductions across diverse vessel types. Operational innovations such as tilting installations help overcome air-draft and cargo-handling constraints, while real-world performance data and crew feedback strengthen industry confidence, supporting broader adoption of practical decarbonisation solutions in shipping today.
Stay connected with the global maritime community through RINA’s newsletters.
Whether you are a member or not, you can receive updates from The Naval Architect, alongside selected RINA news, events and industry insights. Members also gain access to a wider portfolio of exclusive newsletters on key topics in the maritime industry.