The startup Newlight Marine Technologies has introduced a system that retrofits existing marine diesel engines to operate on a dual-fuel setup. By injecting compressed hydrogen into the combustion cycle, an AI controller optimizes fuel consumption in real time. If hydrogen supplies are depleted, the engine seamlessly switches back to standard diesel operation.
During a test voyage covering 8,500 nautical miles from Singapore to Ghana, a 200-meter bulk carrier equipped with the system demonstrated a 24% reduction in fuel consumption. Additionally, carbon dioxide emissions dropped by 28%, while carbon monoxide emissions decreased by 22%. The AI monitored cylinder pressure, exhaust temperature, and intake pressure throughout the journey.
The installation process takes several weeks and does not require a dry dock or a halt to regular vessel operations. Currently, two units are in active service, and the company has secured 12 orders. According to project partner Lomar Labs, the system can generate annual savings of up to $500,000 per vessel, offering a practical transition toward lower-emission shipping.
