Alfa Laval & NRG Marine: Can Ultrasonic Tech End Biofouling?
Alfa Laval, a Swedish engineering company known primarily for its industrial and marine solutions, has announced its acquisition of UK-based NRG Marine, a leader in ultrasonic anti-fouling technology.
The deal, expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, marks a significant step towards improving vessel efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
By integrating NRG Marine's technology, Alfa Laval aims to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional anti-fouling methods that rely on biocides and chemical treatments.
What is fouling?
Fouling, also known as biofouling, is the accumulation of marine organisms such as algae, barnacles and molluscs on submerged surfaces such as ship hulls, offshore platforms and industrial equipment.
This biological build-up can reduce efficiency by increasing drag, leading to higher fuel consumption and operational costs.
Additionally, biofouling can facilitate the transfer of invasive species across marine ecosystems, disrupting local biodiversity and causing regulatory challenges for the shipping industry.
Tackling biofouling and invasive species
Beyond the economic benefits, Alfa Laval's acquisition also addresses an urgent environmental challenge.
Biofouling—the accumulation of organisms on ship hulls—contributes to higher fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while also facilitating the spread of invasive species. This is a growing concern for global regulators, with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) tightening restrictions on hull fouling to protect marine ecosystems.
“In the race to net zero, solutions that enhance energy efficiency and operational performance are more essential than ever,” says Sameer Kalra, President of Alfa Laval’s Marine Division.
“The inclusion of ultrasonic anti-fouling technology into our portfolio is another addition to our decarbonisation toolbox.”
For the oil and gas sector, NRG Marine’s ATEX-approved system helps prevent biofouling on stationary equipment, ensuring compliance with industry safety and environmental standards.
Cost savings and operational efficiency
One of the key advantages of ultrasonic anti-fouling technology is its ability to improve efficiency while lowering costs.
Traditional anti-fouling methods require frequent cleaning, drydocking and chemical treatments, all of which contribute to operational downtime and expenses.
In contrast, ultrasonic technology operates passively and does not require through-hull fittings or drydocking, making it easier to implement on both new and existing vessels.
Darren Rowlands, Founder and CEO of NRG Marine, talks about the importance of scale in bringing the technology to a wider market:
“Alfa Laval’s commitment to sustainable solutions and extensive global network make them an ideal partner for us.
“This strategic move will increase our market reach and scalability, making our solution more accessible to customers.”
Alfa Laval expects that, beyond shipping, the technology will see wider adoption in industrial applications where equipment reliability and maintenance costs are critical concerns.
Environmental compliance in marine industries
For shipowners, the acquisition comes at a time when environmental regulations are becoming more stringent.
With the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) framework in place, maintaining vessel efficiency is crucial for compliance and operational viability.
Ultrasonic anti-fouling technology offers a way to improve environmental ratings without resorting to costly retrofits or chemical treatments.
As the shipping industry continues its push towards decarbonisation, Alfa Laval’s acquisition of NRG Marine reflects a broader trend of companies seeking innovative ways to align profitability with sustainability.
By offering a low-maintenance and chemical-free solution to biofouling, the company is positioning itself as a leader in green marine technology, ensuring both regulatory compliance and operational efficiency for its customers.
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