The 2012 guidelines on the method of calculation of the attained Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new ships, MEPC.212(63), represent a major step forward in implementing energy efficiency regulations for ships through the introduction of the EEDI limits for various types of ships. There are, however, serious concerns regarding the sufficiency of propulsion power and steering devices to maintain manoeuvrability of ships in adverse conditions, hence regarding the safety of ships, if the EEDI requirements are achieved by simply reducing the installed engine power. This was the rationale for a new EU funded research project with the acronym SHOPERA (2013-2016), aiming at developing suitable methods, tools and guidelines to effectively address the above concerns. The paper discusses the background of the conducted research of SHOPERA, presents early results of the project and elaborates on the criteria for ship's manoeuvrability and safety under adverse conditions.
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