(HOUSTON) ABS and lomarlabs have signed a Master Research Collaboration Agreement (MRCA) to explore innovative technologies from early-stage technology companies that aim to reduce emissions, increase fuel efficiency and automate operations in the maritime industry.

The MRCA establishes a framework for both organizations to share expertise and advisory services to engage with the startups to support research, development and testing of novel solutions for maritime applications.

“At ABS, we’ve built deep expertise in evaluating and qualifying novel technologies across the marine and offshore industries. Our systematic approach to technology qualification helps identify design improvements early in the development process.  For early-stage technology companies, that’s an important advantage. We are excited to join lomarlabs in supporting the next generation of innovators, bringing ABS’ technical expertise directly into the startup ecosystem where it can make the greatest impact,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.

“The maritime industry is entering a period where innovation is advancing faster than traditional regulatory frameworks can evolve. Historically, many classification and regulatory requirements were developed through decades of operational experience, but emerging technologies require a more proactive and collaborative approach. That is why close cooperation between innovators, regulators, flag administrations and classification societies such as ABS is so important. By working together, sharing lessons learned and iterating as technologies mature, we can develop robust standards that support innovation while maintaining the highest levels of safety, environmental protection and operational integrity,” said Stylianos Papageorgiou, lomarlabs Managing Director.

The first project under the MRCA is with Blaze Energy to pilot a next-generation, compact, engine-integrated fuel reformer designed to accelerate the practical adoption of alternative fuels in commercial shipping.

“The most important step toward commercial deployment for maritime hardware technology is moving from lab-proven to vessel-proven — demonstrating performance under real operating conditions at sea. We are excited to partner with ABS and lomarlabs, on a program that addresses exactly this challenge. It gives Blaze Energy a structured, accelerated path toward pilot vessel deployment and, ultimately, full regulatory approval. Through our Flex-Fuel Reformer, vessel operators can gain fuel flexibility and stronger regulatory compliance, with complete confidence in its safety and performance,” said Rok Sitar, Blaze Energy Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder.

ABS New Technology Qualification services provide vendors and end-users with a clearly defined approach to confirm new technologies perform intended functions in accordance with defined performance requirements. Learn more here.

Photo courtesy of Blaze Energy

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About ABS

ABS, a global leader in classification services, is focused on delivering a safer, cleaner future for the marine and offshore industries. For over 160 years, ABS has been setting standards for safety and excellence and continues to innovate in the fields of clean technology, digitalization and artificial intelligence, providing industry-leading technical advisory services. With a global network of surveyors, engineers, technology specialists and support staff, ABS works with industry leaders including its members and clients around the world to improve safety in operational performance and efficiency with innovative solutions for the complete life cycle of marine and offshore assets.

About lomarlabs

lomarlabs is a venture catalyst with a proven track record of advancing pioneering technologies across the maritime industry. Drawing on five decades of operational expertise from Lomar, its ship-owning and management parent company, lomarlabs works alongside start-ups and innovators to develop, test, and scale solutions that support the decarbonisation, automation, and transformation of global shipping. https://lomarlabs.com/

About Blaze Energy

Blaze Energy is a U.S.- and Norway-based hard-tech company pioneering fuel flexibility for the maritime shipping industry. Its flagship technology, the Flex-Fuel Reformer, enables low-cost, low-risk deployment of alternative fuels — ammonia, methanol, and LNG — on both existing fleets and newbuild vessels, by matching each fuel's combustion characteristics to those of conventional hydrocarbons for seamless integration with in-place engine platforms.

The company's first commercial product, the Fuel Flexible Retrofit System (FFRS), delivers a phased retrofit solution that achieves emission compliance while preserving fuel optionality and protecting operators from premature fuel lock-in.

Built on more than 30 years of innovation in advanced fuel reforming technology, Blaze Energy brings together a team of engineering specialists and seasoned maritime leaders dedicated to accelerating a practical, scalable adoption of alternative fuels across the maritime industry.

To learn more about Blaze Energy visit: blazeenergytech.com or contact the team at media@blazeenergytech.com.