15.11.2023
ERMA FIRST thanks TCM for invaluable support
ERMA FIRST, headquartered in Perama, Greece, stands out as a global leader in providing sustainable maritime equipment and solutions.
Advancing the maritime industry
Dimitris Koutsaftis, Senior Scientific Consultant, highlights ERMA FIRST’s commitment to advancing the maritime industry. In early 2022, the company launched an ambitious R&D program dedicated to decarbonization. This program focuses on exploring Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) solutions for commercial vessels.
Dimitris Koutsaftis emphasizes the pressing need for carbon-neutral operations in the maritime sector due to tightening environmental regulations and increasing awareness of climate change. He states, «Our goal is to be at the forefront of this transformative movement.» In this pursuit, ERMA FIRST values its collaboration TCM’s Advisory Services, which has proven to be immensely valuable.
“What is your company’s vision for decarbonization?”
“At ERMA FIRST, environmental protection is deeply ingrained in our core values, shaping every aspect of our operations. Our vision is to maintain our prominent role in the shipping industry’s shift towards sustainability. We aim to accomplish this by offering a diverse range of innovative solutions. That actively combat to the challenges of decarbonization and align with International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) decarbonization objectives.”
“What are the key success factors for achieving success in capturing CO2 within the project?”
“For us, success will be defined by development of a system or a range of systems that demonstrate efficiency and reliability, consistently deliver desired results, and effectively tackle the challenges of CCS.”
“Why did you decide to partner with TCM?”
“TCM stands as the largest testing facility for CCS technologies globally. Right from the outset, we recognized the pivotal role that TCM’s expertise and resources would play in ensuring the successful execution of our project.”
“How has TCM contributes additional value to the project?”
“TCM has served as a reliable project advisor, imparting invaluable insights into CCS principles and aiding in the strategic formulation of the path leading to the successful development and introduction of ERMA FIRST’s new and innovative CCS technology.”
“What would you like to emphasize as a key advantage of the collaboration with TCM?”
“The most significant advantage has been the unfettered access to TCM’s vast reservoir of knowledge and expertise, particularly within the realm of amine-based CCS. The depth of knowledge sharing has played a pivotal role in the overarching success of the project.”
“Could you share some insights into your company’s roadmap for achieving its decarbonization goals?”
“Over the last two years, ERMA FIRST has expanded its product portfolio to offer a comprehensive range of solutions. The advocate for environmental conservation and bolster decarbonization initiatives. In alignment with our CCS project, we are presently in the process of constructing a pilot CO2 capture facility, slated for installation and testing on a commercial vessel in Q1 of 2024. Subsequently, a six-month testing phase will follow. We anticipate the commercial launch of our CCS product to commence in 2025.”
“Could you also discuss the primary challenge that keeps you engaged and the exciting opportunity that motivates you?”
“The challenge that consistently captures our attention is the pursuit of the ideal solution and the development of a product that meets our lofty standards and performs precisely as envisioned. Conversely, the exhilarating opportunity to make a substantial impact contribution to the industry’s shift towards sustainability and actively participate in its decarbonization voyage serves as our driving force.”
«Thank you, very much, and good luck, with your important work!»