In an environment where technology is advancing in alignment with the energy transition and the pursuit of net-zero, the matter of future-proofing* will be an increasingly important factor in the yachting industry. The pursuit of net zero technical solutions can take many forms, navigating the options is complex, and it is highly probable that the energy transition will result in a diverse mix of solutions being utilized to achieve the net zero targets.
In response to this challenge, the Southampton based firm of Lateral Naval Architects conceived and engineered the Energy Transition Platform (ETP), providing a technical solution that allows for a phased transition from diesel-based fuels to methanol in a pre-engineered design that can hedge against many possible future outcomes.
A vital step in the development of the ETP has been adopting safety methodologies and regulatory compliance into the heart of the design. Lateral has worked collaboratively with ABS to understand the most effective methods of compliance. The technical architecture of the ETP was submitted for approval to ABS requirements for methanol and ethanol fueled vessels.
On the 3rd November Lateral received from ABS Approval in Principle (AiP) for feasibility of the naval architecture and engineering systems which are at the core of the ETP.
“Achieving AiP for our flexible methanol-ready platform is a very important first step in the journey to provide our clients with solutions and practical answers to the future. As naval architects and engineers we are excited by the challenges of the energy transition and the ETP is a great example of our ongoing work to push to net zero” Simon Brealey, Chief Mechanical Engineer, Lateral
“ABS is proud to collaborate with forward-looking companies like Lateral Naval Architects who continuously explore and promote innovative solutions for their clients. This superyacht promises to capitalize on the experience gained from commercial vessels utilizing methanol to meet greenhouse gas emission reduction targets,” said Daniele Bottino, ABS Manager, Business Development, Yacht Sector Lead
*Future-proofing a superyacht is the process of anticipating the future to enable informed choices of layout, configuration, technology and specification that will avoid obsolescence within the intended lifespan of the yacht. Any yacht built today, will have to span the energy transition, a period of significant change in available fuel types and associated technologies.
