Chennai Officers Seminar Focuses on Future Fuels and Energy Efficiency - SeaVoices - Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) Publication

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06 Aug 2025

2 mins

Chennai Officers Seminar Focuses on Future Fuels and Energy Efficiency

On 13 June 2025, SMOU welcomed maritime professionals to the Chennai Officers Seminar for an insightful session on future fuels and energy efficiency in shipping. As the maritime industry moves steadily toward more sustainable operations, the seminar provided officers with a timely opportunity to better understand the changes shaping their profession.

Leading the session was Mr Muhammad Hisham Bin Amir, Senior Lecturer at Wavelink Maritime Institute. With clarity and depth, he walked participants through the current fuel landscape, the shift toward low- and zero-carbon alternatives, and what these changes all mean for seafarers at sea and ashore.

The seminar highlighted that energy efficiency is not just about fuel choice, emphasising the smarter operations, better design, and continuous crew training.

Officers were introduced to alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels, learning about their emissions profiles, storage requirements, safety considerations, and handling challenges. The session also covered emerging technologies and the IMO’s latest greenhouse gas strategy.

What stood out was the sense of shared purpose in the room. The officers were not just there to learn about new technologies but to prepare for what lies ahead as shipping evolves to meet environmental goals. The seminar underscored SMOU’s commitment to keeping its members informed and future-ready through meaningful engagement and education.

Following the seminar, participants went over to join SMOU Chennai Nite 2025, where the evening continued with celebration, connection, and appreciation for the maritime community.