E.R. Schiffahrt has become the first shipping company to implement the DNV GL e-learning course "Energy Efficiency on Board" across its entire fleet. Developed by DNV GL and E.R. Schiffahrt experts who worked on the concept as part of a pilot project, the course is designed to help operators to significantly improve the energy efficiency of their on-board systems. Individual training modules outline a number of potential options for boosting energy efficiency in terms of hydrodynamics, propulsion, main engine and auxiliary power.
The E.R. Schiffahrt fleet currently comprises 125 container ships, bulk carriers and offshore ships, which are deployed by leading liner and bulk commodity shipping companies and in the offshore industry. E.R. Schiffahrt will train its captains and chief engineers with the e-learning course offered via the DNV GL Maritime Academy to continuously improve the energy footprint on board its vessels through targeted measures. 
Kathrin St¨¹rzekarn, Team Leader Maritime Academy Germany, explains: "The Maritime Academy focused intently on E.R. Schiffahrt's specific requirements and delivered a custom-built solution. A team of developers explored the specific elements of on-board operations, as well as the potential opportunities available by changing crew behaviour and optimising how equipment is used on-board."
The various modules help participants with both the practical and theoretical aspects of improving shipping operations for energy efficiency, such as optimising trim and ballast, potential savings with propellers and rudders, as well as options for better route planning. Simple steps are used to explain how and where each individual measure can be introduced and implemented, how the benefits of improved process flows affect ship operations, and how great the potential energy savings can be.
"Our captains and chief engineers are the main target group for this e-learning course", says Ronald Schnitter, Director Fleet Personnel at E.R. Schiffahrt, "Alongside the technical details discussed during the training, there are modules on team work and team development to improve communication on board that are very interesting for our crew".
"We are very pleased that E.R Schiffahrt is the first shipping company to use the new e-learning course exclusively across its entire fleet. The concept is based on content that is quick to teach which optimises process flows and saves energy. For example, when implemented effectively, the methods taught for clever manoeuvring can save time and money without the needs for any additional outlays", adds Christian Heitmann, DNV GL Key Account Manager Business Development for Germany.