SEASTARS

By 2030, the SEASTARS project aims to cut emissions compared to 2008 levels and improve energy efficiency by 20% compared to 2022 benchmarks. The project focuses on eight vessel designs — four retrofits and four newbuilds — covering inland, short-sea, and high-seas shipping. The goal? To combine innovative, market-ready technologies to slash emissions and boost efficiency by the project’s end. SEASTARS will explore a range of solutions: optimizing hydrodynamics through propeller-hull adjustments and air lubrication, upgrading onboard machinery with fuel cells, electric motors, solar panels, sails, and advanced batteries, and experimenting with alternative fuels like biofuels, hydrogen, methanol, LNG, and ammonia. SEASTARS will explore a range of solutions: optimizing hydrodynamics through propeller-hull adjustments and air lubrication, upgrading onboard machinery with fuel cells, electric motors, solar panels, sails, and advanced batteries, and experimenting with alternative fuels like biofuels, hydrogen, methanol, LNG, and ammonia. Additionally, the project will test energy management techniques such as cold ironing and carbon capture systems to minimize emissions even further. Using a method called Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) — an approach rooted in Systems Engineering — SEASTARS will help shipowners map out practical, step-by-step decarbonization strategies. The modular design of these upgrades allows for flexibility: technologies can be added, scaled, or replaced over time to align with evolving regulations. By adopting this phased approach, shipowners can reduce emissions while keeping investment risks in check. The project is particularly relevant for shipowners, naval engineers, and anyone in the maritime industry looking to optimize vessel performance and stay ahead of upcoming sustainability regulations. Stay informed about SEASTARS' developments — follow our journey and join the conversation on our LinkedIn page to get the latest updates.