Deployment of 1,500 Non-Invasive Sensors Brings New Momentum to Emission Reduction in Cruise and Cargo Vessels*

Driven by the global “Dual Carbon” goals, the maritime industry—a significant source of carbon emissions—is actively seeking effective pathways to improve energy efficiency and transition toward low-carbon operations. Recently, ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, and eMarine, a Swedish technology company specializing in maritime energy management, announced a strategic partnership. As part of this collaboration, ABB will supply eMarine with 1,500 marine-certified NINVA™ non-invasive temperature sensors. This initiative not only marks the official introduction of ABB’s NINVA technology to the global maritime market but also aims to create a new ecosystem for vessel energy management through deep integration with eMarine’s advanced energy solutions, supporting cruise and cargo operators in achieving their emission reduction targets.

Since its establishment, eMarine has focused on addressing critical energy management challenges in the maritime sector. Its self-developed digital energy management solutions have earned a strong reputation among global shipping operators. Numerous well-known cruise lines and large cargo vessel operators are already using eMarine’s technology to significantly enhance energy utilization efficiency through real-time monitoring, data analysis, and intelligent control of energy consumption, achieving measurable results in CO₂ emission reduction. The partnership with ABB represents a major step in eMarine’s technological advancement. By incorporating ABB’s NINVA sensors, eMarine’s solutions will achieve higher data accuracy and better environmental adaptability, further elevating the service provided to customers.

For ABB, this collaboration is a key expansion of its technological footprint into the maritime industry. The NINVA™ non-invasive temperature sensor has been widely adopted in sectors such as chemicals, oil, and gas, recognized for its safety, ease of use, and high accuracy. Maritime operations, however, present more complex conditions—with higher requirements for vibration resistance, corrosion protection, and overall durability. The marine-certified NINVA sensors have undergone rigorous performance and environmental tests, capable of withstanding vibrations up to 4g, making them ideal for the challenging conditions at sea. Furthermore, the non-invasive design allows the sensors to be installed without drilling into pipes, eliminating potential leakage risks associated with traditional invasive sensors while reducing installation time and operational costs.

In vessel operations, heat recovery systems, cooling water systems, and ventilation systems are among the core components affecting energy consumption. The NINVA™ non-invasive temperature sensors capture real-time temperature data from these critical systems and transmit it to eMarine’s energy management platform. By analyzing this data accurately, the platform can identify energy inefficiencies and provide actionable optimization insights. For instance, in heat recovery systems, temperature measurements help operators monitor heat exchange efficiency and adjust parameters to improve utilization. In cooling water systems, real-time temperature monitoring prevents equipment failure and energy waste caused by improper water temperatures. It is estimated that the combined effect of NINVA sensors and eMarine’s energy management system can lead to a measurable reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, offering practical technological support for the industry’s low-carbon transition.

Ola Persson, CEO of eMarine, emphasized the importance of innovation: “The decarbonization of the maritime industry relies heavily on technological advances. At eMarine, we are committed to providing solutions that solve real operational challenges. ABB’s NINVA technology offers distinct advantages in temperature measurement and complements our system perfectly. This partnership enables us to integrate more accurate and reliable temperature data into our energy management framework, helping customers unlock further energy-saving potential and accelerate decarbonization.”

Dr. Guruprasad Sosale, Product Manager at ABB Measurement & Analytics, added: “ABB has always been dedicated to supporting sustainable development across industries through innovative and customized solutions. The success of NINVA in non-marine applications laid a solid foundation for its entry into the maritime sector. Our cooperation with eMarine represents the first large-scale application of NINVA technology optimized specifically for maritime use. We are confident that the high performance of NINVA sensors, combined with eMarine’s extensive experience in maritime energy management, will introduce a new model of energy efficiency and help the industry achieve its decarbonization goals.”

With a history spanning over 140 years, ABB possesses profound expertise in electrification and automation. The company employs approximately 110,000 people and operates globally across industrial, energy, transportation, and maritime sectors. Listed on both the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm, ABB’s stable operations and continuous innovation provide customers with a reliable partnership foundation.

ABB’s Process Automation division, one of its core business units, offers comprehensive automation, electrification, and digital services for industrial operations. With around 20,000 experts, the division supports customers in process industries, hybrid sectors, and the maritime industry with end-to-end solutions—from design and equipment supply to operational maintenance. The collaboration with eMarine exemplifies ABB’s strategic focus on expanding its influence in the maritime sector by aligning advanced sensor technology with the evolving needs of energy management.