MERC launches new research programme on ship energy efficiency and decarbonisation technologies in Hellenic Shipping News , Shipping: Emission Possible 04/06/2026 The Athens-based Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre (MERC) has launched a major new industry programme at Posidonia 2026, combining research, real-world pilot projects and data management applications development to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the existing global shipping fleet. The programme is designed to close the gap between theoretical solutions and operational reality, supporting shipowners with practical insight into how technologies perform under real trading conditions. At its core is a co-ordinated approach built around three pillars: targeted research, pilot deployment and structured data management. Together, these aim to generate clear, evidence-based understanding of which solutions can deliver scalable emissions reductions and under what conditions. MERC has introduced a pilot initiative designed to test a range of energy saving devices and technologies under real-world operating conditions. These will generate data on performance, integration and commercial viability across different vessel segments, with findings feeding directly into fleet operations and future technology development. Complementing this, MERC is establishing frameworks and platforms to manage and analyse emissions-reduction data generated through the research and pilot activity. The aim is to improve consistency, transparency and comparability across technologies and vessel types. Nikos Kakalis, Managing Director of MERC, said: “Our new research programme positions MERC as an implementation-focused industry platform helping shipowners navigate the practical realities of decarbonising under regulatory pressure and real market conditions. “What we are seeing now is a clear shift towards real-world testing, where the constraints, costs and integration challenges become fully visible. Our role is to bring that