Ways to Tackle EEXI and CII Compliance (Part I): Quick and Effective Solutions with EPL and SHaPoLi

As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to meet global sustainability standards, the implementation of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) has become a key regulatory challenge. Enforced on January 1, 2023, EEXI sets energy efficiency benchmarks for existing vessels, requiring modifications to reduce their carbon emissions. The first available solutions are Engine Power Limitation (EPL) and Shaft Power Limitation (SHaPoLi), which optimize energy use while minimizing operational costs. However, while these technologies offer a relatively simple path to compliance, they come with operational trade-offs. Shipping companies must also consider alternative sustainable strategies to meet future CII phases and evolving environmental regulations.

Understanding EEXI and Compliance Phases

EEXI establishes energy efficiency targets for existing vessels based on their design parameters, operational characteristics, and fuel consumption. Ships that fail to meet these standards may face penalties or restrictions. The easiest way to comply with these regulations is by modifying engine power outputs, directly impacting fuel consumption and emissions.

IMO regulations require that all affected vessels comply with EEXI standards by their first annual survey after January 1, 2023. Compliance will be reassessed periodically, with stricter energy efficiency measures expected in the future. Shipping companies must remain proactive in adopting sustainable technologies to meet upcoming regulatory phases.

EPL and SHaPoLi: The First Steps Toward EEXI Compliance

Several companies offer Engine Power Limitation (EPL) and Shaft Power Limitation (ShaPoLi) technologies to help shipowners comply with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) regulations.

WinGD, MAN Energy Solutions, and Nabtesco specialize in EPL solutions, providing advanced power limitation systems to regulate engine output. Meanwhile, companies like Kongsberg Maritime and Insatech Marine offer both EPL and ShaPoLi solutions, integrating advanced monitoring and control technologies to enhance compliance, fuel efficiency, and overall operational performance.

EPL and SHaPoLi are the most immediate and cost-effective solutions for shipping companies looking to comply with EEXI requirements. These technologies restrict engine and shaft power, helping ships meet efficiency targets with minimal retrofitting.

Engine Power Limitation (EPL)

EPL caps the maximum power output of a ship’s engine to ensure it operates within a predefined fuel consumption limit. This can be implemented through automatic or manual controls, depending on operational requirements.

Benefits of EPL:

Regulatory Compliance – Ensures vessels meet EEXI & CII standards without costly engine replacements.
Fuel Savings – Directly reduces fuel consumption, leading to lower operational costs.
Emissions Reduction – Contributes to lower CO2, NOx, and SOx emissions, supporting sustainability goals.
Lower Maintenance Costs – Reduces engine wear and tear, minimizing maintenance expenses over time.

However, EPL may restrict vessel speed, potentially impacting commercial flexibility and competitiveness in certain markets.

Shaft Power Limitation (SHaPoLi)

SHaPoLi regulates the power transmitted from the engine to the ship’s propeller, optimizing propulsion efficiency. Unlike EPL, which directly limits engine power, SHaPoLi adjusts power delivery based on speed and load conditions.

Advantages of SHaPoLi:

Operational Flexibility – Dynamically adjusts power usage to optimize efficiency without sacrificing performance.
Fuel and Cost Savings – Reduces fuel consumption, leading to lower expenses.
Environmental Compliance – Helps meet EEXI & CII targets and reduces carbon footprints.
Long-Term Asset Value – Enhances vessel attractiveness for resale or chartering.

While SHaPoLi offers more flexibility than EPL, it still imposes operational limitations, particularly for vessels requiring high-speed transit.

The Drawbacks: Commercial Restrictions and Long-Term Viability

While EPL and SHaPoLi are effective compliance tools, they introduce commercial trade-offs. Reduced power can lead to lower speeds, affecting schedules and competitiveness in markets that prioritize quick turnaround times. Additionally, as EEXI regulations evolve, these measures alone may not be sufficient for long-term compliance. Shipping companies should consider integrating alternative technologies to future-proof their fleets.

Beyond EPL and SHaPoLi: The Future of EEXI Compliance

Although EPL and SHaPoLi provide an immediate solution, long-term compliance with evolving IMO regulations will require broader sustainable strategies, including:

Hybrid and Electric Propulsion – Integrating battery and hybrid technologies to minimize fossil fuel dependency.
Alternative Fuels – Transitioning to LNG, hydrogen, or biofuels to reduce carbon emissions.
Wind and Solar Power – Utilizing renewable energy to supplement traditional propulsion.
Hull Modifications – Enhancing vessel design to improve energy efficiency and reduce drag.

Conclusion: A Multi-Layered Approach to Compliance

While EPL and SHaPoLi offer an immediate path to EEXI compliance, shipping companies must adopt a broader, long-term strategy to stay ahead of future regulatory requirements. Investing in alternative fuels, hybrid technologies, and innovative vessel designs will ensure continued competitiveness while meeting stringent environmental goals. By proactively embracing these solutions, the maritime industry can achieve sustainability without compromising operational efficiency and profitability.