APRIL 24, 2013 — Design Alaska, a Fairbanks-based architecture, engineering, and surveying firm; and Art Anderson Associates, its naval architecture subconsultant, were recently awarded a contract for the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) to investigate potential energy efficiency improvements. The contract, driven by new International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, requires development of Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plans (SEEMPs) for three AMHS ferries involved in international voyages, the M/V Taku, M/V Matanuska, and M/V Kennicott.

M/V Kennicot

The new IMO standards require vessels traveling internationally to obtain International Energy Efficiency Certificates (IEECs) demonstrating that vessel owners and operators have developed energy efficiency plans for their travel routes and vessel operating systems.

SEEMPs provide a mechanism for identifying best practices for energy efficiency improvement, and include items like improved voyage planning, implementation of measurement tools and systems, and the use of various systems and technologies that reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

"We're excited for this unique project to improve energy efficiency," said Chris Miller, Vice President of Design Alaska. Mr. Miller, a Professional Mechanical Engineer and with green building expertise that includes LEED-accreditation, has recently been working throughout the State of Alaska on improving energy efficiency in state owned facilities.

"Energy costs are high, particularly with oil-fired systems. It is worth the investment to have an energy auditor look at your systems to ensure they are working at maximum efficiency," says Mr. Miller, noting that the award of this contract with the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) and AMHS strengthens a long term relationship between the group who have been doing business for many years. "Energy efficiency will continue to be a growth area for both of us," Mr. Miller stated.

Providing the critical naval architecture and marine engineering expertise for the team is Bremerton, Washington-based Art Anderson Associates, one of the west coast's premiere naval architecture and engineering firms. The firm emphasizes providing services for vessels and their systems, brings strong relevant experience with the AMHS fleet, and has been highly-engaged in marine energy and environmental projects.

"An Alaskan firm that knows energy efficiency teamed with our Washington based naval architecture and engineering firm is a powerful combination for AMHS," stated Ralph Duncan, Vice President of Marine for Art Anderson Associates. Mr. Duncan anticipates that there will be continued interest in developing SEEMPs in the future as organizations see the savings it can produce. "We are at the leading edge of something that is beneficial to vessel operators worldwide. It's great to be heading the charge into this important way of doing business," he said.