Water Production on Ships: A Cost-& Carbon Effective Solution
Fresh water production and supply on ships often go unnoticed in discussions about carbon and cost reduction strategies. Yet, for many vessels, this aspect represents a significant area of expenditure and environmental impact. Trading patterns frequently force ships to resort to expensive alternatives like raising steam to produce fresh water, purchasing from barges or ashore, and even buying plastic bottled water to sustain the crew. These methods not only drain finances but also contribute to plastic waste and environmental degradation.
Stonefort Marine is delighted to announce its UK representation for Pomar Water S.L., based near A Coruna in Spain. With decades of experience in all aspects of water production and treatment across offshore, naval, industrial, and civil markets, Pomar brings unparalleled expertise. Combined with Stonefort Marine's specific market and international shipping know-how, this partnership has potential to change how on-board water supply is managed.
Together, Stonefort Marine and Pomar Water S.L. look forward to providing innovative solutions to anyone facing carbon, cost, or quality challenges in the on-board water supply space. We are committed to offering sustainable alternatives that not only reduce operational expenses but also contribute to a cleaner, more environmentally friendly maritime industry.
One such solution gaining momentum is the adoption of reverse osmosis systems. While common in some sectors, such as cruise, other deep-sea vessels have often overlooked these sustainable technologies. However, advancements in technology have made reverse osmosis systems more accessible and cost-effective. For example, Pomar’s reverse osmosis system capable of producing 20m3 per day of fresh water or 15m3 per day of technical water now incurs production costs of around $USD 1 (one)/m3, due to the remarkably low power consumption (compared to around $USD 600/T if raising steam – an estimate that one customer arrived at for their business case). They are also incredibly compact (see photo) – making integration with existing systems straightforward.
By raising awareness of the potential savings and environmental benefits associated with reverse osmosis systems, we aim to empower ship managers to make informed decisions that benefit both their bottom line and the planet. If you're interested in reducing costs and eliminating environmental burdens associated with freshwater provision on your vessel, we encourage you to reach out. Together, we can explore how implementing modern reverse osmosis systems can not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable maritime industry.