Berg Propulsion has made a significant leap in maritime sustainability by introducing the world’s first climate-neutral propeller shafts, produced using the innovative GreenForge® process. This groundbreaking development aims to provide the shipping industry with a sustainable alternative to traditional steel production, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Berg Propulsion introduces climate-neutral propeller shafts using the GreenForge® process.
The shafts are made from recycled scrap steel, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) will utilize these shafts in three new Ro-Ro vessels set for delivery in 2026.
The GreenForge® process achieves a 95% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to conventional methods.
The GreenForge® Process
The GreenForge® process, developed by Björneborg Steel, utilizes renewable electricity and replaces traditional fossil fuels with fossil-free biogas alternatives. This innovative method not only minimizes carbon emissions but also ensures that the remaining emissions are offset, achieving full climate neutrality. Key features of the process include:
Renewable Energy Use: The production relies on renewable electricity sources.
Biogas Substitution: Traditional propane replaces fossil-free biogas, significantly lowering emissions.
Emission Reduction: The process is verified to cut CO₂ emissions by 95% compared to standard steel production methods.
Collaboration with Louis Dreyfus Armateurs
Berg Propulsion has partnered with Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) to supply six climate-neutral propeller shafts for three new roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. These vessels are designed for low-emission operations and will feature:
Wind-Assisted Propulsion: Equipped with rotor sails to harness wind energy.
Hybrid Propulsion Systems: Utilizing dual-fuel engines that can run on maritime diesel oil and e-methanol.
Advanced Control Technology: Provided by Berg to enhance operational efficiency.
The first of these climate-neutral shafts is scheduled for delivery in March 2025, with the remaining five expected by June 2025.
Impact on the Maritime Industry
As the maritime sector faces increasing carbon pricing and stricter emissions regulations, the introduction of climate-neutral products like the GreenForge® propeller shafts positions Berg Propulsion as a leader in sustainable maritime technology. The European Union’s Clean Industrial Deal aims to promote renewable energy and reduce barriers to clean technology investment, further enhancing the competitive advantage of sustainable processes.
Future of Sustainable Steel Production
Björneborg Steel anticipates that by 2030, emission-free steelmaking will become more cost-effective than traditional methods. This shift is crucial as the EU phases out carbon emission rights, compelling steelmakers to adopt climate-neutral production processes or face rising costs. The sustainability case for carbon-neutral steel is compelling, offering marine equipment buyers a viable alternative to fossil-based production costs.
Berg Propulsion’s introduction of the world’s first climate-neutral propeller shafts marks a pivotal moment in the maritime industry’s journey towards sustainability. By leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices, Berg is not only setting a new standard for marine propulsion systems but also contributing to a greener future for the shipping industry.
Sources
Louis Dreyfus Armateurs’ new vessels to feature BERG’s GreenForge® Propeller Shafts, Портньюс.
BERG Introduces the World’s First GreenForge Shafts, The Maritime Executive.
Berg Propulsion unveils ‘world’s first’ climate neutral propeller shafts, Offshore-Energy.biz.
