Greener Shipping: Inside Alfa Laval's Anti-Fouling Move
Alfa Laval, the Swedish engineering company specialising in industrial and marine solutions, is set to acquire UK-based NRG Marine, a leader in ultrasonic anti-fouling technology.
The deal, expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, represents a significant move towards enhancing vessel efficiency while addressing environmental concerns.
By incorporating NRG Marine’s technology into its portfolio, Alfa Laval aims to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional anti-fouling methods, which often rely on biocides and chemicals.
The acquisition comes at a time when the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions and comply with stricter environmental regulations.
Addressing biofouling in shipping
Biofouling is a persistent issue in the maritime industry. It occurs when marine organisms, such as algae, barnacles and molluscs, accumulate on submerged surfaces like ship hulls, offshore platforms and industrial equipment.
The biological build-up increases drag, leading to higher fuel consumption and greater operational costs.
Beyond efficiency concerns, biofouling also plays a role in the spread of invasive species. When ships travel between regions, they can inadvertently transport marine life that disrupts local ecosystems.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has tightened regulations on hull fouling to mitigate this risk, making effective anti-fouling solutions more crucial than ever.
“In the race to net zero, solutions that enhance energy efficiency and operational performance are more essential than ever,” says Sameer Kalra, President of Alfa Laval’s Marine Division.
“The inclusion of ultrasonic anti-fouling technology into our portfolio is another addition to our decarbonisation toolbox.”
NRG Marine’s ultrasonic system helps prevent biofouling without the need for harmful chemicals or frequent drydocking. This passive, non-intrusive approach ensures compliance with environmental standards while reducing maintenance costs.
The oil and gas sector, in particular, benefits from the ATEX-approved system, which prevents biofouling on stationary equipment, helping companies meet safety and regulatory requirements.
Cost savings and operational benefits
Traditional anti-fouling solutions require routine cleaning, chemical treatments and drydocking, all of which contribute to downtime and expenses.
Ultrasonic anti-fouling technology, in contrast, operates continuously without requiring physical alterations to the hull, making it a more cost-effective and maintenance-friendly option.
For shipowners and operators, this technology translates into reduced fuel consumption, extended maintenance intervals and lower overall running costs.
As regulatory frameworks such as the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) push the industry towards improved efficiency, innovations like ultrasonic anti-fouling offer a practical way to comply without major retrofits.
Darren Rowlands, Founder and CEO of NRG Marine, sees the acquisition as an opportunity to scale the technology globally: “Alfa Laval’s commitment to sustainable solutions and extensive global network make them an ideal partner for us.
"This strategic move will increase our market reach and scalability, making our solution more accessible to customers.”
Alfa Laval’s investment in ultrasonic technology also aligns with broader trends in the maritime sector. Shipowners are actively seeking solutions that enhance efficiency while minimising environmental impact.
By integrating NRG Marine’s expertise, Alfa Laval is positioning itself at the forefront of green marine technology.
A step towards sustainable shipping
Environmental compliance is becoming an increasingly pressing issue for the shipping industry.
With tighter regulations on emissions and efficiency, ship operators need reliable solutions to stay ahead of the curve. The adoption of ultrasonic anti-fouling technology offers a way to maintain vessel performance while avoiding costly and environmentally harmful treatments.
As the industry moves towards decarbonisation, Alfa Laval’s acquisition signals a commitment to sustainability without compromising profitability.
The integration of NRG Marine’s technology not only supports compliance with regulatory standards but also delivers tangible cost and efficiency benefits.
With this strategic move, Alfa Laval strengthens its position as a leader in marine innovation, offering solutions that help shipowners navigate the evolving regulatory landscape while improving operational performance.
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