As of 1 August 2025, amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, Appendix IX will introduce expanded requirements for the collection and reporting of fuel oil consumption data. These changes aim to improve the transparency, consistency and accuracy of energy efficiency reporting across the global fleet.
The amendments were adopted under IMO Resolution MEPC.385(81) in March 2024. In addition, Flag States may choose to implement them voluntarily starting from 1 January 2025.
Key Updates to Fuel Oil Data Collection
Under the amended Appendix IX, ships will need to collect additional information, including:
- Fuel oil consumption by consumer type and fuel type (e.g. main engines, auxiliary engines)
- Fuel oil consumption while not underway, categorized by consumer type and fuel type
- Onshore power supply delivered to the ship
- Voluntary reporting of laden distance travelled
- Information on the installation and use of innovative technologies
- Total transport work
Together, these data points provide a more comprehensive view of vessel energy performance.
Clarifying Data Collection Timelines
To prevent disruption caused by mid-year implementation, IMO and IACS guidance clarify how shipowners should manage the transition.
Specifically, IACS Unified Interpretation UI MPC.131 and MEPC.1/Circ.913 confirm that:
- Additional data collection should align with full calendar years
- Ships already collecting data under the current Appendix IX before 1 August 2025 must continue data collection without interruption
- Ships entering service after 1 August 2025 must collect the full set of required data, including the new elements, from their date of entry into service
As a result, consistency in annual reporting remains preserved.
Action Items for Shipowners and Operators
For Existing Ships
- Continue collecting existing Appendix IX data throughout 2025
- Begin collecting the additional data required by MEPC.385(81) from 1 January 2026
- Amend and verify SEEMP Part II before the start of the 2026 reporting year
For New Ships
- Collect all required fuel oil consumption data from the date of entry into service if delivered after 1 August 2025
- Amend and verify SEEMP Part II prior to commencement of operations
For Flag States Implementing Early
- Where amendments apply before August 2025, ships must update SEEMP Part II accordingly
- Verification must take place by the early implementation date set by the Flag Administration
Why Compliance Matters
These amendments reinforce the maritime industry’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency and data transparency. By acting early, shipowners and managers can avoid compliance risks, ensure accurate reporting and maintain smooth operations during the transition period.
Marine Surveyor Consultant provides technical guidance, SEEMP Part II advisory and verification readiness support to help operators adapt efficiently to these new requirements.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available IMO documentation and industry guidance available as of November 2024. Shipowners and operators should always refer to the latest official circulars and Flag State instructions for compliance purposes.
