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Annual Report 2022

Marine

2022 was another excellent year for our Marine business, both in terms of financial results and the number of new vessels classified. We exceeded our budget with a revenue of around €170M, showing a ~17% growth from 2021. Such significant growth shows the brand recognition that RINA now has in the marine sector, which reflects the understanding of the reliability, trust, and service level we provide. 

Of course, sustaining our levels of business requires the right people, and we invested in people, competencies, and our global network. 

While our growth rate makes recruitment an ongoing challenge, in 2022, we increased the number of colleagues that support the marine sector by more than 10% to over 1000 located worldwide. 

These include bringing in new competencies to support environmental aspects, digitalisation, cyber security, and specialist areas such as alternative fuels and hydrodynamics to support the decarbonisation of the industry. 

We experienced significant growth in Greece, where we have invested a great deal, but also in regions such as SE Asia and Northern Europe, where our client portfolio is expanding. In Italy, we hold around 93% of the market share, and the focus is very much on maintaining our business. 

RINA is one of the leading class societies for passenger ships and ferries. With the relaxation of the COVID restrictions, we saw a substantial recovery of this business in 2022. However, except for containers, the new build market is still relatively quiet, but we had significant success in the number of new builds for car and truck carriers. 

A clear focus on decarbonisation 

RINA is talking with almost every client about decarbonisation - but we are not just talking, we are finding practical and doable solutions for shipowners. 

We approach decarbonisation from three angles: alternative fuels, ship design, and operational excellence to ensure the crew operates the ship at the maximum possible efficiency to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. In all three of these areas, we introduced several new services in 2022. These included the “Innovative Ships” concept, which follows several joint development projects with key partners. This highly successful approach produced the Approval in Principle (AiP) of an LNG/Hydrogen Fuelled VLCC and a hydrogen-powered MR tanker, conceived by RINA and designed by FKAB: the first vessel of its kind to meet IMO 2050 targets with currently viable technology and fuels. 

Cooperation between Aurelia Green Ship Concept Design and RINA generated the new design concept of a RORO vessel for transporting ro-ro cargo, with electric propulsion using highly compressed hydrogen as fuel. RINA is also part of the Goal Zero Consortium and has been awarded funding by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) to develop, deploy and commercialise a fully electric cargo vessel in interoperable swappable battery infrastructure solutions for the Port of Singapore. Construction started in September 2022, and RINA was appointed as the classification society for the vessel.

Along with hydrogen production onboard vessels, we have also carried out studies into the use of methanol and ammonia as alternative fuels, highlighting the pros and cons of different options. In addition, RINA carried out a Joint Development Project with SDARI on an ammonia-fuelled MR tanker in 2022.

A digital future 

RINA continues to invest in digital tools to support the shipping industry. During 2022, 23 new clients and 282 new vessels started to use Digital Solutions, bringing the total number of vessels using our digital solutions to more than 2000. New provisions included Voyage Optimisation and Voyage Monitoring tools. Voyage Optimisation guides a ship on an optimal route based on arrival time, weather, currents, ship type, etc. It is designed to save fuel, reduce operating costs, and improve CII rating. 

Voyage Monitoring allows shipowners to follow a vessel’s voyage to confirm that the planned route is being followed. If the ship deviates, the system will raise alarms to alert the crew. The Leonardo Fleet and VRS (Vessel reporting system) was developed in 2022 and will be released in 2023. Leonardo Fleet will bring an overview of the fleet status to shipping companies, and the VRS system will enable vessels to report MRV, DCS, noon reports and all other reports in a completely flexible way.

Projects

SANLORENZO-BLUEGAME CHASE BOAT, Italy  

Super-fast, zero-emission catamaran to support sailboats in the America’s Cup  

In a project starting in 2022 and due for completion in early 2024, RINA is providing services to support the construction of the unique “Chase Boat”, a super-fast, zero-emission, 11-metre catamaran. The vessel can travel at speeds of up to 50 knots and has been designed to support sailboats in the America’s Cup. Its innovative design includes a hydrogen powertrain with pressurised hydrogen, fuel cells, batteries, electrical motors, and foils attached to the catamaran bottom plating. The hull shell is designed for high speed and will be made of carbon fibre. Very few vessels in the world match Chase Boat’s capabilities. 

BAGLIETTO B-ZERO, Italy 

Hydrogen-powered megayacht  

The Baglietto shipyard’s B-Zero is a design for a 50m superyacht fitted with solar panels, an electrolyser, pressurised hydrogen systems, fuel cells, and batteries. It is the first real-scale design application of hydrogen-related technologies to a mega yacht.  RINA is supporting Baglietto with design verification and compliance services. Baglietto will evaluate the possibility of proceeding into a construction phase for possible delivery in 2028. 

ZEUS Hydrogen-fuelled Vessel 

The first RINA class ship to be propelled by hydrogen

The research project TecBIA (Technologies with Low Environmental Impact to produce energy on naval vessels) by Fincantieri, co-financed by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development, aims to validate the sustainable technology of fuel cells for naval applications through the construction of the prototype ship named ZEUS (Zero Emission Ultimate Ship) with hybrid propulsion. RINA classified Zeus in October 2022 as the first RINA Classed ship capable of being propelled by Hydrogen. About 25 meters long and weighing about 170 tons, ZEUS’s primary objective is that of a floating laboratory to study fuel cells. The vessel will be the first real test for the application of fuel cells to power a ship, the results of which will enable the client to evaluate the use of this technology on a wider scale. 

Biodiesel Testing  

Data Collection and analysis of different biodiesel/MGO blends give an understanding of decarbonisation options

The route to decarbonisation can be pursued with different solutions, and using biodiesel is one starting point. RINA supported a biodiesel testing programme which collected and analysed emissions data using biodiesel blended with MGO at different percentages. The project aimed to estimate the effectiveness of the use of biodiesel onboard a tanker for the reduction of overall emissions, in particular carbon dioxide, measuring emissions while the vessel was sailing across the English Channel. This project was important, helping the industry understand the options for decarbonisation and their effects on emissions to meet new IMO regulations. The effectiveness of biodiesel in reducing emissions will depend on the characteristics of each vessel, but this programme demonstrated that emissions were lower with greater percentages of biodiesel. RINA supported the project with engineers and project management services and witnessed the procedure for collecting data. It provided the measurement instrument, advice on where to place sensors and how to take measurements, and a full data input worksheet. 

Meyer Werft’s SilverNova 

Ensuring compliance of new technology with international regulations  

Fuel cell technology is used for onshore applications but is new to the marine sector. It offers a solution to reduce carbon emissions, but vessels must comply with international regulations and standards. To support this, RINA carried out risk assessment, facilitation, worksheet preparation and issued the final report for the installation of eight fuel cell systems on Meyer Werft’s new build cruise LR classed vessel, SilverNova.  Each fuel cell system will deliver 500kW (max) to the ship grid to be used during harbour operations. RINA reviewed the procedure of Fuel cell operation using the HAZOP (Hazard and Operability study) process, employing engineers along with Risk Assessment and Fuel Cell Systems experts to carry out the work. The shipyard, fuel cell manufacturer, vessel owner and vessel operator were present in the HAZOP sessions to discuss the hazards related to the fuel cell operation. 

SNAM FSRU Golar Tundra Dry-dock    

Ensuring the FSRU meets regulations and client requirements

RINA has been awarded the contract for support services to SNAM for the Golar Tundra FSRU dry-dock refurbishment. These include a review of the Works Specification, including refurbishment scope and modification yard contract; technical assistance during the project; design and document review; survey of refurbishment activities; trials after work is completed; and supervision of the cooling down procedure. Its services will ensure the work meets the client’s requirements and compliance with all applicable rules and regulations (International Rules, Flag Rules, class rules, and international standards). 

Terna S.p.A. Marine Cable Repair Vessel 

Finding the right vessel for the job

In 2022, RINA was awarded a contract for consultancy services to define the technical specifications of a ship to be used to repair marine cables. It will provide market analysis on potential operating areas in the Mediterranean Sea, issue TERNA with the main characteristics of the vessel, give an indication of the upgrade process for a supply vessel capable of performing the cable repair operations, draft the minimum technical details for the purchase of a vessel for an upgrade, provide a general overview of the Class notation and relevant certification for the selected unit, and produce 3D modelling of the ship.

Liberty Lines S.P.A. New HSC Ferries 

The first RINA Green Plus class HSC hybrid fast vessels will have an environmentally friendly profile with fuel and energy-saving solutions onboard

Liberty Lines has ordered nine new high-speed passenger ships for the Spanish Armon shipyard to be delivered between 2023 and 2026, with an option for nine further vessels to be delivered between 2027 and 2030. The vessels will be equipped with hybrid propulsion Rolls-Royce Mtu engines. Their design is the result of over two years of collaboration between Liberty Lines, the Armon shipyard, Rolls-Royce, RINA, and Australian designers Incat Crowther. The new vessels will be the first HSC hybrid fast units to obtain the RINA Green Plus class. RINA is providing services to revising the Safety Management System manual and procedures used on board the ships and within Liberty Lines in compliance with the IMO ISM code and laws and regulations of the Italian Administration using its ‘Hydrogen Ready’ expertise.  

New Sefine Gas Fuelled Battery 
Powered RORO
 

Hybrid LNG/battery RORO  

In a contract awarded in 2022 with scheduled completion in 2024, RINA is providing supervision of the construction at the shipyard and classification of the Sefine NB 60- Gas Fuelled Battery powered RORO Passenger Vessel. The vessel is 133.6m long, with a maximum passenger capacity of 1500 persons. It will be powered by a combination of LNG and battery units, providing an environmentally friendly profile with fuel and energy-saving solutions. 

Small Passenger Ship Guide     

Addressing the safety of small vessels in more adequately   

In the absence of harmonised EU safety standards, small passenger ships need to be carefully checked against fragmented national standards. In the second-hand market, in case of not conformities in safety requirements, the vessel has to be modified and re-certified, with all associated additional costs. In a project completed in 2022, RINA developed a prototype common EU performance-based framework for small passenger ships. With full responsibility for the project, the RINA team included experts in passenger ship rules and regulations and project management. The work included assessing possible technical and implementation options, consultation with EU stakeholders, and impact analysis. The performance-based approach will provide flexibility for manufacturers and regulators while setting a common safety benchmark. 

FLARE: FLooding Accident Response 

Introducing better risk models for grounding and collision

For over 20 years, FLARE has bought together key stakeholders from industry, academia and policymakers involved in ship flooding risk research on passenger ships. It offers a unique knowledge base and capability to support targeted new developments, new risk control options and expedite implementation. Using damage stability and safety experts, RINA defined and validated a new flooding risk assessment model capable of evaluating any impending emergency with an evaluation of the safety level in the design phase and in real time. The platform provides the crew with critical decision support information during emergencies and gives designers invaluable feedback to understand the effect of active and passive flood mitigation measures.  The platform provides a risk-based methodology for flooding risk assessment and control, focusing on passenger ships. The flooding simulation tools afford a risk model for flooding incidents, accounting for collision and grounding with a focus on cost-effective risk containment in emergencies, with potential application for newbuilds and existing ships. Results of the project have been submitted at IMO (SDC 9) as recommendations to improve SOLAS regulations. 

SAFEPASS 

The next generation of lifesaving appliances and systems on high-capacity passenger ships   

In extreme scenarios and conditions, timely evacuation of high-capacity passenger ships requires fast and accurate evaluation of the ship’s condition and estimation of remaining evacuation time. In a project completed at the end of 2022, RINA provided safety, ship lifesaving appliances and evacuation, and digital system experts to redefine the evacuation processes, evacuation systems/equipment and international regulations for passenger ships in all environments, hazards and weather conditions. Independent of demographics, the new, integrated system collectively monitors, processes and informs passengers and crew of optimal evacuation routes during emergency scenarios while providing advanced, intuitive and easy-to-use LSA. It provides clear instructions to facilitate safely guiding passengers to safety in an emergency to reduce the total time required for ship evacuation without reliance on specific skills or experience. 

MV Tommaso S CFD Analysis 

Using modern digital tools to predict energy saving and emission reduction  

RINA performed a comparative study of four different energy-saving devices to be installed on the chemical tanker, Tommaso S. By analysing the operational profile and shape of the vessel, RINA used Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis to produce a simulation and evaluate the devices. The study's outcome provided a comparison of the maximum efficiency gained by each device and estimated return on investmen. 

New Prysmian Cable Layer 

The most advanced cable layer to date  

RINA will supervise the construction, testing and classification of the new, cutting-edge Prysmian Group cable-laying vessel to be designed and constructed by Fincantieri. The vessel, which follows the delivery of the “Leonardo da Vinci” vessel in 2021, will be specialised for advanced subsea operations and is intended to be the most capable cable layer in its market. The development of smart and sustainable power grid infrastructure is key to enabling the energy transition, and submarine cables are an essential component. The new vessel will have substantially the same hull as the Leonardo Da Vinci, a length of approximately 170 m and a breadth of about 34 m. With highly efficient and green engines, it will cut NOX emissions by 85%.  

SANMAR H260 Kocaçay IV RI100993, Turkey 

Using digital tools to reduce costs and increase the efficiency of ship design and production phases  

RINA uses the latest digital tools to approve the piping systems and structures of towing winch settings for the H260 Kocaçay IV RI100993. The RINA ship approval platform defines critical survey aspects in advance. It is designed to lessen the number of remarks to increase efficiency and productivity during all ship life phases and reduce time and costs during the design and production phases.    

Hydrogen-fuelled MR Tanker, Greece/Sweden 

A decarbonisation solution for vessels using current technology  

In partnership with FKAB, Wartsila, ABB and Helibo, RINA is working on a project to design an MR tanker using hydrogen as fuel. The tanker design is based on combining LNG with steam in a Helbio gas reformer to split LNG molecules into hydrogen and CO2. Hydrogen is then directly used to fuel the internal combustion engines and fuel cells in a hybrid marine power system by ABB. The CO2 is captured by splitting the LNG molecules rather than from exhaust gas.  The percentage of hydrogen used can be progressively increased to maintain a top CII rating throughout the ship's life, reducing CO2 emissions in a parallel slope with the applicable regulations. The ship can meet full decarbonisation targets by running the engine on 100% hydrogen or produce all the required power by fuel cells. In this way, the owner can decide the rate of CO2 reduction. The innovative approach provides a novel solution for decarbonising new ships with a currently available, technically viable, practical solution that meets IMO 2050 targets.   

New GSI RO-PAX: Moby Fantasy, China 

Evaluating legislative developments

RINA is providing classification of the new Moby Fantasy RO-PAX vessel. The ship has been designed with solutions that will make it possible to lower emissions without compromising performance. Innovative scrubbers are being used to enable the vessel to switch from traditional power to LNG. The Moby Fantasy will be the first RO-PAX vessel to attain EEDI PHASE III.   

Special Diving Operation and Submarine Rescue Ship (SDO-SuRS) 

Supporting rescue activities throughout the world

In 2022, RINA started the classification of the SDO-SuRS for the Italian Navy. The ship is under construction at the MARIOTTI Shipyard in Genoa and associated Submarine Rescue deployable assets at DRASS in Leghorn. When complete, SDO-SuRS will enable the Italian Navy to perform rescue activities up to around 600 msw and the deployable system is designed to be transported by air to be deployed worldwide in less than 72 hours.    

TT-Line LNG Fuelled Green Ships: Nils Holersson and Peter Pan 

Decarbonisation drives innovation

TT-Line has chosen RINA class for their LNG Fuelled Green Ships, Nils Holgersson and Peter Pan. As a result of their innovative technologies, these forward-looking LNG-powered RoPax vessels are the result of cooperation within the industry and a perfect example of how decarbonisation can drive innovation. The engines on board can be started and run up directly with LNG. Over the year, this saves many hours (and the associated emissions) of run-up operation in diesel mode.    

Cooperation with Aurelia Green Ship 

Concept Design for Hydrogen-fuelled RORO

A cooperation between Aurelia Green Ship Concept Design and RINA has generated a new design concept for a cargo RORO vessel with electric propulsion using highly compressed hydrogen as fuel. Aurelia assigned RINA to provide Approval in Principle of the concept design for the hydrogen-fuelled ship, including CH2 (high-pressure cylinders in racks), fuel cell and battery systems. The 100% compressed hydrogen generates no environmentally harmful emissions, producing a design that can be considered zero emission both in port and during navigation. Hybrid propulsion is based on battery and fuel cell power modules, and it is not supported by additional internal combustion engines supplied by petroleum-based conventional fuels. The batteries are also used as an energy storage source to power the hotel load.     

NNPC PH Refinery Pipelines Assessment, Nigeria 

First pipeline assessment project for RINA in Nigeria

Nigerian National Petroleum (NNPC) has decided to undertake rehabilitation of its Port Harcourt Refinery. The refinery used to export its product as well as import feed and consumables through 13 pipelines running between the refinery and two jetties located offshore. The subcontract scope focuses on the refurbishment of these pipelines. RINA is providing pipeline assessment services using long-range and manual ultrasonic testing experts and associated relevant equipment. The work will enable NNPC to check levels of corrosion in the pipelines through a fast, methodical and cost-effective approach compared with other technologies such as pigging.