Resumen
The 2012 guidelines on the method of calculation of the attained Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new ships, MEPC.212(63), as updated by MEPC 245(66) in April 2014, represent a major step forward in implementing energy efficiency regulations for ships through the introduction of the EEDI limits for various types of ships. There are, however, serious concerns regarding the sufficiency of propulsion power and steering devices to maintain manoeuvrability of ships in adverse conditions, hence regarding the safety of ships, if the EEDI requirements are achieved by simply reducing the installed engine power. This was the rationale for a new EU funded research project with the acronym SHOPERA (2013-2016), aiming at developing suitable methods, tools and guidelines to effectively address these concerns. The paper discusses the background of project SHOPERA and outlines the formulation of suitable criteria and methods for the assessment of ship's manoeuvrability and safety under adverse weather conditions.