DNV Maritime chief executive’s key trends for 2023

Another tectonic shift is the changes in “technology of new fuels and energy efficiencies” said Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen, including digitalising shipping fleets and developments in fuels such as ammonia, methanol, biofuels and hydrogen.

There has been a recent surge in orders for newbuilds powered by alternative fuels, representing a step-change for the market.

DNV offers its forecast for future trends in maritime in its Maritime Forecast to 2050 report, launched in September 2022, and in Alternative Fuel Insights, DNV provides information on the number of ships operating and on order using alternatives to diesel or very low sulphur fuel oil.

Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen also highlighted how digitalisation puts more ships in danger from cyber threats, being the third tectonic shift in the market. “Cyber security is moving the agenda,” he said.

Shipowners, operators, managers and third-party solution providers need to ensure their networks, IT and operating technologies are secure from cyber threats.

With all these market-influencing trends and changes, Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen is expecting challenges and opportunities for shipping companies next year.

“There will be bumpy roads in 2023,” he said, adding the world needs to “be enlightened about what the industry can deliver” in terms of ensuring effective maritime trade and transporting alternative green fuels worldwide.

This will generate opportunities for shipping companies with sustainable business models to benefit in 2023 and beyond.

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