New rules for nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions for marine diesel engines
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has been developing a way forward on NOx emission requirements for marine diesel engines. As a part of global measures to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, marine diesel engines with a power output greater than 130kW must comply with NOx emission limits.
An engine international air pollution prevention (EIAPP) certificate and a technical file must be carried on board for each engine, to confirm it applies with the NOx emission limits.
Those who are unable to secure an EIAPP can seek an Exemption 44—Marine safety (Domestic commercial vessels – EIAPP certificate) Exemption 2021. This exemption will assist domestic commercial vessel owners and operators to comply with the NOx emission requirements by allowing specific alternative evidence to be used that demonstrates the marine diesel engine is likely to meet the applicable NOx emission limit (instead of an EIAPP certificate and technical file).
Amendments to Marine Order 97, are planned with a forecast implementation in December 2021.
AMSA will soon be releasing other communications and consulting with industry on these proposed amendments, which will:
- Require Australian engine suppliers to provide the EIAPP certificate and technical file for all engines with a power output above 130kW sold for installation on a DCV.
- Require owners and operators to carry on board a valid EIAPP certificate and technical file for each new and replacement engine >130kW installed on vessels after 15 December 2021.
- Allow DCVs continued use of acceptable evidence, established under Exemption 44, for engines installed and replaced before 15 December 2021.
AMSA will notify stakeholders when consultation on Marine Order 97 opens.
More information is available on the AMSA website.