Rotterdam, Netherlands: As digital technologies are adopted in the maritime sector, the need for decarbonisation measures also becomes increasingly apparent. Besides empowering decision-makers with data-driven recommendations, digitally-enabled vessels that incorporate decarbonisation technologies can reduce carbon emissions by 38% and enhanced connectivity can increase profitability by 4 to 17%.

Aligned with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) targets to reduce carbon emissions per transport work by at least 40% by 2030, Europe has been promoting the introduction of LNG infrastructure in its ports, supporting research into alternative fuels, and even published the European Green Deal in 2019. This programme highlights Europe’s mission to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 and reduce GHG emissions by 90% across all transport modes.

These developments in Europe are promising in light of research that reflects that shipping accounts for 3% of global emissions, 18% of which are caused by ships that dock at European ports. In fact, starting in 2023, the EU’s Emissions Trading System will be implementing possible detentions and financial penalties for polluting vessels in European waters.

At the heart of such maritime matters lies the global port metropolis of Rotterdam, where innovative digital technologies are helping to optimise route planning and the berthing of ships, thus, paving the way towards a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. For over 40 years, Rotterdam has been home to the iconic maritime industry event – Europort. This knowledge-sharing B2B platform is centred on reshaping the future of the shipping sector, and this year, it is all set to take place from November 7th to 10th at Rotterdam Ahoy with 25,000+ expected visitors and 1,000 exhibiting companies.

Europort has been renowned as the meeting place of maritime industry decision-makers and forms the perfect opportunity to discover current digital transformation trends, sustainable solutions, and smart technologies. As a leading provider of satellite communications solutions, IEC Telecom Group recognises the increasing demand for connectivity at sea – applications linked to the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT), safety solutions, and regulatory compliance.

IEC Telecom Group’s continued commitment to bringing the benefits of digitalisation to all types of vessels at sea is reflected in its new generation hybrid LEO/GEO/GSM connectivity solution for the maritime sector. Xpand Portfolio is powered by Starlink, offering network connectivity of up to 220Mbps across Starlink’s international footprint. Xpand also features resilient L-band back-up connectivity up to 700 kbps, powered by Iridium Certus® globally.

Enabled by the OneGate network management solution, Xpand supports terrestrial networks in close proximity to the shore. In addition, OneGate offers a wide range of value-added services such as filtration, bandwidth optimisation, credit limit management, 24/7 support, and more.

While digitalisation facilitates decarbonisation at sea, business continuity is the key to success. Applications such as videoconferencing, remote management, and CCTV surveillance help to resolve a lot of operational tasks while the vessel continues to follow its course, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

Yet, there will be little to no use of these technologies if their operation is limited to the high-speed LEO line. Recognising this challenge, IEC Telecom has developed a suite of optimised applications, catering the above services under 100 Kbps, ensuring lasting digitisation and empowering decarbonisation at sea.

Gwenaël Lohéac, Managing Director & President – Europe, IEC Telecom Group, says: Digitalisation and decarbonisation go hand-in-hand. As shipping companies commit to the most fuel-efficient routes for their vessels to support the carbon emission reduction targets for 2030, digital fleet management systems must also constantly evolve and utilise real-time data. Whether we look at vessel performance, sea conditions, or remote maintenance, digital technologies can help to prevent breakdowns and empower the shipping sector to remain competitive and sustainable. With COP28 around the corner, we are committed to the progress of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming. We are excited to support our customers in this journey by enabling best-in-class connectivity solutions for their fleets.

Alongside the latest innovations in the area of digital decarbonisation, the Xpand solution by IEC Telecom will be on display at Europort 2023 in The Netherlands. The event will bring together key maritime stakeholders to exchange their valuable experiences and create new synergies for a more sustainable future in the European maritime sector.