Lloyd’s Register Launches Retrofit Guidance for Alternative Fuels and Energy-Saving Devices

Summary

Lloyd’s Register has published new Guidance Notes for Retrofit of Alternative Fuels and Energy Saving Devices. The single framework covers conversions to LNG, methanol, ethanol, ammonia, hydrogen and LPG, alongside wind-assisted propulsion and air lubrication systems. It stresses early decision-making, cross-industry collaboration and crew training as regulatory pressure drives more owners to retrofit existing ships.

Article

London: Classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) has released new guidance to help shipowners manage increasingly complex retrofit projects as they adapt existing vessels to alternative fuels and energy-saving technologies.

The Guidance Notes for Retrofit of Alternative Fuels and Energy Saving Devices were published on October 15, 2026.

Why are retrofits becoming more important?

Regulatory and commercial pressures from FuelEU Maritime, the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the IMO’s greenhouse gas targets are pushing owners to improve the efficiency and emissions performance of existing ships. Retrofitting allows owners to cut emissions and extend asset life without waiting for newbuildings.

LR said the challenge is no longer choosing a single fuel or technology. Projects now require careful planning across fuel storage, engine compatibility, safety systems, crew training, statutory approvals, vessel design and long-term operations.

What does the guidance cover?

The publication brings alternative fuels and energy-saving devices into a single retrofit framework, covering:

• Fuel conversions: LNG, methanol, ethanol, ammonia, hydrogen and LPG
• Wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS)
• Air lubrication systems (ALS)

What are the key messages?

A central theme is that many critical decisions must be taken much earlier than owners may expect. Engine conversion capability, available onboard space, tank location, fuel system integration and project execution can significantly affect costs, timelines and operational outcomes.

The guidance emphasises early collaboration between owners, shipyards, equipment makers, flag administrations and classification societies to avoid delays and reduce risk.

It also highlights opportunities for energy-saving technologies. Wind-assisted propulsion, for example, can benefit from a reward factor under FuelEU Maritime that recognises its contribution to lowering greenhouse gas intensity.

The guidance stresses human factors as well as technical ones. Extensive crew training, revised operating procedures, updated safety management systems and new risk assessments are identified as essential, particularly for ammonia and hydrogen, which bring new safety challenges.

What did LR say?

Paul Herbert, Principal Technology Specialist at Lloyd’s Register, said that with much of the global fleet set to remain in service well into the next decade, retrofits will play a critical role in decarbonisation. “The challenge is no longer identifying technologies,” he said, but understanding how they can be safely, practically and economically integrated into existing ships.

Herbert said bringing fuels and efficiency technologies into one document would help owners take a more structured approach to retrofit decisions and project delivery.

The guidance is available through LR’s Retrofit Research programme, which publishes reports and tools tracking retrofit demand, capabilities and adoption.

Why does it matter?

Retrofits are already shaping the fuel transition. In 2023, a large share of methanol-capable ship orders were retrofits, helped by methanol’s handling characteristics being closer to conventional fuels. Recent trials, such as Maersk’s ethanol tests on methanol dual-fuel ships, show existing engines can be adapted to new fuels.

As ammonia, hydrogen and wind technologies mature, a consolidated retrofit framework could reduce uncertainty for owners and shipyards. It also points to growing demand for yards with conversion expertise, an opportunity for repair and retrofit centres in Asia, including India’s expanding ship repair sector.

FAQs

What has Lloyd’s Register published?

Guidance Notes for Retrofit of Alternative Fuels and Energy Saving Devices, released on October 15, 2026.

Which fuels does the guidance cover?

LNG, methanol, ethanol, ammonia, hydrogen and LPG.

Which energy-saving technologies are included?

Wind-assisted propulsion systems and air lubrication systems.

Why are early decisions important in retrofits?

Engine capability, onboard space, tank location and system integration strongly affect costs, timelines and outcomes.

Where can owners access the guidance?

Through LR’s Retrofit Research programme on its website.