Around two-thirds of the global fleet is unlikely to receive major retrofits for next-generation fuels because of vessel age and conversion economics, according to industry analysis cited in a commentary published by Hellenic Shipping News. The article, by Auramarine chief executive John Bergman, argues that these ships need practical emissions cuts that avoid excessive capital spending or additional operational risk.
Bergman advocates choosing fuels and equipment according to each vessel’s remaining working life. Older ships are generally better suited to biofuel blends requiring limited investment, while vessels in mid-life may warrant fuel-supply upgrades. For newbuildings, he identifies growing interest in methanol dual-fuel propulsion among container feeders and chemical tankers, where a longer operating horizon strengthens the investment case.
Higher-flashpoint biofuels, including SOLAS Chapter II-2-compliant HVO and FAME, can often replace conventional fuels with few changes to engines or supply equipment, the commentary says. Such applications need no alternative-design approval and usually avoid dry-docking. Bergman presents them as a lower-cost bridge for mixed fleets facing financial exposure under the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime. He identifies short-sea, feeder and regional operators with frequent European calls as early adopters, followed by centrally managed tanker, ro-ro and ro-pax fleets.
However, the article stresses that changing fuels requires technical preparation. Methanol installations need appropriate gas and leak detection, emergency shutdown arrangements and additional crew training. Ammonia brings further requirements for tank arrangements, separation from accommodation and heat sources, and specialised safety procedures. Biofuels also require checks on viscosity, cold-flow behaviour and compatibility with existing equipment. Research, testing and operating experience are therefore important to establishing whether fuel systems can handle these products reliably.
Bergman also argues that support throughout a vessel’s life should form part of the investment decision rather than be treated as an add-on. Commissioning, inspections, maintenance, spare-parts planning, upgrades, training and remote monitoring help equipment remain effective as fuel specifications, regulations and trading patterns change. In his assessment, validated engineering gives owners a basis for committing capital, while continuing technical support helps preserve the usefulness of that investment over time.