Innovating waterborne transportation

How can new technologies make European waterborne transport more sustainable, efficient, and competitive? TML explored this question together with Ramboll, the University of Antwerp, and DST in a European study. We led the research in three technology areas and coordinated the technical and market assessments across the entire study.

Europe’s waterborne transport sector faces major challenges. Both maritime and inland shipping need to reduce their emissions, while Europe also aims to strengthen its competitiveness and reduce its dependence on foreign technologies. Innovation has an important role to play in achieving these goals.

The study examined how existing and emerging technologies could contribute to these ambitions, how mature they are, and what opportunities and challenges they present for the European industry.

Which technologies did TML investigate?

TML was responsible for three research reports, each focusing on an important aspect of the future of waterborne transport:

• Energy conversion systems: How can ships operate using cleaner energy? We examined developments in combustion engines, fuel cells, electric motors, and hybrid systems that combine different energy sources.

• Energy storage systems: Which technologies can support the further electrification of ships? We analysed developments in batteries, supercapacitors, and on-board electrical networks and microgrids.

• Remote-controlled and autonomous navigation: How can ships navigate more independently and safely? We explored automated navigation, advanced sensors, remote operation, and communication between ships and shore-based systems. We also examined challenges such as cybersecurity, reliable communication, and the safe integration of autonomous vessels into ports and waterways.

TML also contributed to reports on shipbuilding and retrofitting, port technologies, energy efficiency, and control systems to limit exhaust gas emissions.

From technological potential to practical insights

For each technology group, we assessed its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Beyond technical capabilities, we examined market developments, available expertise, supply chains, and the innovation potential of the European industry.

The study provided a clearer picture of Europe’s industrial strengths, the challenges that remain, and the technologies that could help decarbonise waterborne transport while strengthening Europe's competitiveness.

The study has now been completed, and the research reports are available online.