Concerns have been raised that classification society guidelines and rules from regulatory bodies are outmoded and could be preventing the development of new technologies.

During an hour-long green session at the recent International Tug & Salvage Convention in Vancouver, Canada a number of delegates highlighted the issue that classification societies are playing a greater role in what technology companies can and can not do.

Internationally-recognised classification societies are members of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). The IACS strives to facilitate an exchange of knowledge of technical developments and works to harmonise classification rules and survey procedures among its members.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is one organisation that has an Emerging Technologies list that is intended to provide a guide in selecting a technology for the Clean Diesel Emerging Technologies Program’s Request for Proposals.

A technology may reside on the list for one year, during which time the manufacturer will seek full verification.

A number of green technology companies commented that the process for certification is both costly and often does not have the scope to deal with some emerging technologies.

"I have a problem with the EPA, and that problem is that it is geared toward original manufacturing rather than if you are trying to change. For example, it is unclear how they will deal with hybrid retrofits. The California Air Resources Board and the US EPA need to get around how they will deal with new technologies," commented Susan Hayman from Foss Maritime.

As a result a number of technology companies have looked elsewhere to gain official recognition, such as complying with US Coast Guard regulations.

Other technology companies have been working with classification societies who recognise the industry is evolving at a faster pace than expected and are looking to address the issue.

"They recognise the problem and don't want to be seen as dragging the chain," commented Brent Perry at Corvus Energy Limited, Canada.