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DNV GL and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) today (February 28) to promote research and development (R&D) and innovation in the maritime industry.

The signing ceremony took place at the DNV GL 150th anniversary celebrations, in the presence of Mr Lui Tuck Yew, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Mr Borge Brende, Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The MoU was signed between Dr Henrik Madsen, DNV GL’s Group President and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr Andrew Tan, MPA Chief Executive. It will promote maritime R&D in the following areas:

- Liquefied natural gas (LNG) research and technology, covering both risk assessment and safety, and simulation study and training.

- Green Ports - an examination of the potential environmental gains to be made through the use of energy saving and emission reduction technology in ports, in terms of both infrastructure, processes and equipment and vessels.

- Marine environment and resources - projects which are designed to cut emissions and boost fuel efficiency, through retrofitting and improved operational maintenance.

- Organisation of maritime-related thought leadership forums to promote green shipping, green ports and green technology in the Singapore maritime community.

"Singapore has emerged as one of the key centres for innovation in the shipping world, especially in terms of promoting technologies and systems which develop and promote green outcomes" said Madsen. "We have built up a relationship with the MPA over the past several years, as we have both jointly and separately championed projects which have sought to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency in shipping, and this MOU will help us to further our relationship."

Madsen added: "Indeed, the MOU is a reflection of the emphasis we place on innovation and R&D at DNV GL. We are making a significant and sustained group-wide commitment by investing in the future of our industry. We will continue to invest around 5% of annual revenue to R&D with one fifth of that marked for long term projects with a transformative effect, and have hubs of innovation around the world. This is at the heart of our goal of making the industry safer, smarter and greener."

Tan remarked: "The signing of this MOU signifies a shared vision to drive our maritime industry research efforts. It will also help position Singapore as a centre of excellence for maritime research. I’m confident that this partnership will grow stronger and contribute to the overall growth of the maritime sector."

Image: Dr Henrik Madsen, DNV GL’s Group President and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr Andrew Tan, MPA Chief Executive.