A recent qualitative survey conducted by design and engineering consultancy Houlder has revealed that shipowners perceive uncertainty as a major obstacle to the maritime industry’s energy transition. 

The survey, which included senior executives from shipowning companies across various sectors, highlights the “uncertainty dilemma”—where decarbonisation choices remain unclear, but regulatory pressure necessitates action.

The survey respondents acknowledged the difficulty of navigating the transition amid tightening environmental regulations. While many shipowners expressed a need for flexibility to adjust strategies as conditions evolve, the absence of clarity from some governments and transport departments was cited as a significant hindrance.