Several shipowners have installed Elogrid tunnel thruster grids on their vessels to reduce fuel consumption – and consequently carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. The climate impact of the solution has been studied in two recent theses, which analyzed both its carbon handprint and footprint. The results show that the emission reductions achieved with Elogrid far exceed its lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.

Elogrid™, developed by Elomatic, is a device designed to improve energy efficiency in ships equipped with side thrusters. Its most significant benefit is reduced fuel consumption, which leads to lower CO₂ emissions. The savings potential varies depending on the vessel type and speed. Elomatic’s Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations have identified three emission reduction scenarios: 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%.

While carbon footprint calculation is an established method for assessing climate impact, there is still no universally accepted standard for defining carbon handprint. However, when applied correctly, it offers a useful framework for quantifying the positive climate impact of a solution, particularly by comparing its potential emission reductions against other available alternatives.

Solving challenges in carbon handprint assessment

In her master’s thesis for Tampere University, Aada Rauhala examined the applicability of a carbon handprint model in the technology industry. The thesis analyzed the emission reduction potential of both Elogrid and high-strength steel using a product-level handprint model developed by VTT and LUT University. Elogrid’s carbon handprint was calculated for four tunnel thruster grids installed on M/S Viking Cinderella, using the three previously mentioned reduction scenarios.

The findings confirmed that the selected model is a valid tool for quantifying positive environmental impacts. Over a one-year evaluation period, the total carbon handprint of the Elogrid unit ranged from 268.7 to 463.8 tonnes of CO₂e, equivalent to the annual emissions of 54 to 155 detached houses.

Lifecycle assessment included in footprint calculation

In another thesis, the carbon footprint of Elogrid was examined. Axel Ala-Heikkilä, in his thesis for Turku University of Applied Sciences, mapped out the full lifecycle of the Elogrid devices installed on M/S Viking Cinderella and assessed the resulting greenhouse gas emissions.

The carbon footprint assessment followed the ISO 14067 standard and covered the entire lifecycle – from design to end-of-life. The total carbon footprint for four Elogrid devices was calculated at 13.18 tonnes of CO₂e.

Studies confirm: Elogrid’s benefits evident within weeks

The findings from both Rauhala’s and Ala-Heikkilä’s theses show that the emission savings generated by Elogrid far exceed its lifecycle emissions. According to Rauhala, the payback time for the climate impact, in terms of CO₂ equivalents, was only 5 to 15 days. “These results highlight the technology’s considerable savings potential and how quickly its climate benefits materialize,” Rauhala explains.

Both theses provide valuable insights for the advancement of Elogrid and other energy efficiency enhancing technologies. According to Jari Yli-Tolppa, Vice President of Shipowner Services at Elomatic, measuring the climate impact of maritime technology is crucial: “Understanding how solutions can reduce emissions is critical – from both an environmental and economic perspective.”

Explore Aada Rauhala’s Master’s Thesis (in Finnish): Hiilikädenjäljen laskentamenetelmän soveltaminen : Pilottilaskenta Teknologiateollisuudessa

Explore Alex Ala-Heikkilä’s Thesis (in Finnish): Elogrid-virtausohjainten hiilijalanjälki : case M/S Viking Cinderella – Theseus