US MARAD selects ABS to head Maritime Innovation Centre
The Office of Environment and Innovation at the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) has chosen ABS to establish and oversee the US Center for Maritime Innovation (Center) through a five-year cooperative agreement.
The Center is designed to facilitate the implementation of clean energy technologies on US vessels, supported by extensive research and development programs as well as training initiatives.
ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher Wiernicki remarked that this Center will serve as a crucial national asset.
ABS will partner with MARAD to initiate and manage the Center, focusing on the research, development, evaluation, demonstration, and implementation of cutting-edge maritime technologies and methodologies.
The Center’s objectives include:
Developing infrastructure to support clean energy deployment;
Identifying research needs for new maritime technologies pertinent to the US maritime sector;
Undertaking research, development, testing, and evaluation of technologies, and advising on the best marine technologies available;
Evaluating and tracking US advancements in marine technology;
Helping navigate complex regulatory landscapes and documenting industry best practices;
Collaborating with academic and private training organizations to craft strategies for the US maritime industry across various fleets, including inland, deep water, and coastal.
Over the next six months, ABS and MARAD will collaborate to operationalize the Center, establish working groups and essential functions, and set research agendas and projects.
This phase will involve extensive interaction with stakeholders in the maritime industry, according to the US Congress.