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Meeting IMO Regulations: How zeroBOG™ Supports MEPC 80 and EEXI Compliance

  • jesusrangel3
  • Jun 6
  • 2 min read

zeroBOG IMO compliance

Introduction


The maritime industry is under increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. Recent regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), including MEPC 80 and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), set ambitious new standards for LNG carriers and gas ships. For operators, compliance is not just a legal requirement—it’s a competitive imperative. Sulzer’s zeroBOG™ technology offers a proven solution to help LNG fleets meet and exceed these evolving regulatory demands.


The Regulatory Landscape: MEPC 80 and EEXI


MEPC 80, adopted in July 2023, reinforces the IMO’s commitment to decarbonizing shipping, with a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The EEXI regulation, which applies to all ships of 400 gross tonnage and above, sets strict energy efficiency benchmarks for existing vessels, including LNG carriers. For LNG carriers, the required EEXI reduction factor is set at 30% below the baseline, making compliance particularly challenging for older and less efficient ships.


The Compliance Challenge for LNG Operators

To comply with MEPC 80 and EEXI, LNG operators must:


  • Improve ship energy efficiency

  • Reduce operational emissions

  • Demonstrate ongoing compliance through technical files and regular reporting


Traditional approaches, such as engine power limitations and operational adjustments, may not be enough to achieve the required reductions—especially for vessels with high BOG (boil-off gas) management demands.


How zeroBOG™ Enables Compliance

zeroBOG™ is engineered to address these regulatory challenges head-on:


1. Efficient BOG Recondensation

By ensuring complete and reliable recondensation of boil-off gas, zeroBOG™ minimizes product loss and reduces greenhouse gas emissions—directly supporting MEPC 80’s decarbonization targets.


2. Energy Efficiency Gains

zeroBOG™’s compact and modular design optimizes energy use, helping ships achieve the 30% EEXI reduction factor required for LNG carriers. Its advanced control system ensures stable operation, even under fluctuating process conditions.


3. Simplified Compliance

With its self-regulating operation and robust performance, zeroBOG™ helps operators maintain consistent energy efficiency, making it easier to document compliance in EEXI technical files and meet ongoing reporting requirements.


Additional Benefits


  • Fast installation: Modular construction allows quick retrofitting or integration into new builds.

  • Reduced CAPEX and OPEX: Smaller footprint and lower maintenance needs translate into cost savings.

  • Future-proof technology: zeroBOG™ supports compliance with current and future IMO regulations, including CII and SEEMP frameworks.


Conclusion


Sulzer’s zeroBOG™ technology is a strategic asset for LNG operators facing the twin challenges of regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

By enabling ships to meet MEPC 80 and EEXI requirements, zeroBOG™ not only ensures legal compliance but also enhances sustainability and profitability in a rapidly evolving industry.


Ready to achieve regulatory compliance and boost your LNG fleet’s efficiency? Contact Sulzer Chemtech to learn how zeroBOG™ can help you meet MEPC 80 and EEXI standards.

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