Revised energy efficiency design index parameters for inland cargo ships of Bangladesh

Abstract

A generalized CO₂ emission benchmark (energy efficiency design index) cannot be established for inland ships in a similar fashion like the one established by International Maritime Organization for seagoing vessels. Difference in environmental, geographical and economic conditions, for example, shallow and restricted water effects, different fuel quality (to reduce operational cost), reduction in speed, increase in engine power, reduction in carrying capacity and cargo availability, forbids the direct use of energy efficiency design index as formulated by International Maritime Organization. These conditions have been addressed at first in this research, and revision of some parameters is presented for calculating energy efficiency design index for inland cargo ships of Bangladesh. Moreover, the ship data stored at different organizations of Bangladesh deviate from the existing ship data. As a result, the collected data have undergone through several verification processes. Based on the verified real data, CO₂ emission benchmark for inland cargo ships of Bangladesh was established. This benchmark is one of the world’s first CO₂ emission benchmark for inland cargo shipping. This benchmark will force ship designers of Bangladesh to design more energy efficient ships that will consume less energy per ton-mile. It is interesting to note that the energy efficiency design index curve for inland cargo ships using revised energy efficiency design index parameters is below the energy efficiency design index curve using International Maritime Organization formulation. The prime reasons behind this fact have also been explained in this research.