ESL Shipping has launched a multi-year research and development project, Smart Fleet Optimization, focused on improving fleet-level planning and decision-making through advanced optimization methods, including the exploration of quantum computing applications for complex shipping operations.<\/p>\n
Partially funded by Business Finland, the project addresses challenges arising from managing cargo flows, capacity constraints, emissions and commercial priorities simultaneously. By combining operational data, optimization models and new approaches to pricing and information sharing, the Smart Fleet Optimization project aims to deepen understanding of how emerging computational methods could support more advanced decision-making in shipping.<\/p>\n
\u201cFleet optimization in tramp trade shipping is highly complex with many variables that change dynamically. Our goal is to understand how far advanced and emerging optimization methods can meaningfully support operational planning and emission reductions,\u201d says Kirsi Yl\u00e4rinne, Environment & Sustainability Director at ESL Shipping.<\/p>\n
In the project, ESL Shipping has partnered with QMill to assess quantum computing suitability for optimization problems, using ESL Shipping\u2019s real operational data. The work will include modelling, validation and close collaboration between technical specialists and business stakeholders.<\/p>\n
”ESL Shipping\u2019s use case is a particularly compelling optimization challenge. By integrating QMill’s quantum-classical hybrid optimization algorithms with ESL Shipping\u2019s operational data we can deliver real business value already today, while unlocking greater value as quantum hardware matures. This hybrid approach, which bridges classical and quantum computing, is pioneering within the field,\u201d says Ville Kotovirta, CTO at QMill.<\/p>\n
\u201cQuantum computing offers long-term potential for solving highly complex optimization challenges in shipping. With Business Finland funding, we can investigate these possibilities in a structured and realistic way, closely connected to our operational needs,\u201d says Kirsi Yl\u00e4rinne.<\/p>\n
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For more information, please contact:
\nKirsi Yl\u00e4rinne
\nEnvironment & Sustainability Director, ESL Shipping Ltd
\ntel. +358 9 521 9990, firstname.lastname@eslshipping.com<\/p>\n
Eliisa Tapio
\nHead of Communications, QMill
\ntel. +358 50 4801791, firstname.lastname@qmill.com<\/p>\n
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About ESL Shipping
\nESL Shipping is the leading carrier of dry bulk cargoes in the Baltic region. ESL Shipping\u2019s competitive edge is based on its ability to responsibly secure product and raw material transportation for industries and energy production all year round, even in difficult weather conditions. The shipping company loads and unloads large ocean liners at sea as a special service. ESL Shipping Ltd has been in business for over 75 years and is a subsidiary of Aspo Plc. The combined fleet of ESL Shipping and AtoB@C Shipping consists of around 40 vessels with cargo capacity ranging from 4,000 to 25,000 dwt.<\/p>\n