Research and Innovation
Leading the green and technological transition in maritime operations
VARD’s vision is to lead the green and technological transition in maritime operations through research and innovation. Partnering with customers, technology providers, educational and research institutions, VARD is at the forefront of realizing sustainable business at sea.
The Maritime Challenge
The shift to a sustainable future at sea with zero emission ships is made possible by combining innovation and out-of-the-box thinking with solid shipbuilding experience.
The maritime sector aims to reduce its GHG emissions down to zero by 2050 (Source: IMO). Current predictions suggest that zero emission vessels can be achieved by the end of the decade. We believe that with a dedicated effort by shipbuilders, ship owners, technology providers, energy companies, and regulators it can be done much faster.
Current development on short sea shipping in Norway proves this, such as battery-driven ferries and the first commercial hydrogen-driven vessel.
Zero Emission
VARD has developed the concept VARD ZeroClass that is ready to order, and we are ready to engineer and build vessels with carbon-neutral fuel as the primary energy source.
VARD’s ZeroClass is a brand that can be applied to designs powered by both hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, or full electric. These designs feature genuinely integrated solutions — our mantra for all our projects regardless.
Design Tools
We strive to find the best solutions to enhance the cost efficiency and operational characteristics of vessels with the aim to reduce emissions and cost. Our innovations range from specialized hulls for minimized resistance in the water to configuring vessels for new energy carriers.
All vessels we design are intended to fulfill a specific mission, often in harsh sea conditions. We also go the extra mile to meet customers’ specific requirements and to maximize operational effectiveness in a competitive market.
Electrification
Vard Group builds cybersecure, remote controlled and autonomous vessel solutions and client services.
Vard Group aims to facilitate a new generation of larger robotic vessels with the launch of SeaQ Remote to provide centralized remote operation of automated ship control systems and deck machinery in support of lean crewing, lower costs, safety and sustainability.
SeaQ Remote will see its debut delivery on a total of 14 newbuild marine robotic vessels contracted with VARD. The vessels are designed to unify the SeaQ suite of automation systems into a single user interface with the full range of remote functionality from shore.
The shift to a sustainable future at sea is made possible by combining innovation and out-of-the-box thinking with solid shipbuilding experience.
Read more about VARD’s work in green maritime innovation and shipbuilding on the Sunnmøre coast.
More about VARD