The current ESI scoring model has been in place for several years. Based on operational experience and changing regulatory requirements, ESI Core represents the most ambitious evolution of the framework so far, updated to reflect today’s shipping realities and a changing regulatory landscape.
For ESI member ports, this update brings important changes to how vessel environmental performance is assessed and how ESI scores are distributed.
Why ESI Core Was Updated
Based on operational experience and evolving regulatory requirements, the ESI methodology has been updated to better reflect how vessels actually operate today.
ESI Core strengthens incentives for measures that actively contribute to lower emissions, including:
-
cleaner fuels
-
shore power usage
-
wind-assisted propulsion
-
air lubrication
-
batteries and other environmental technologies
The updated framework also expands environmental assessment and introduces a stronger focus on operational and impact-based performance.
Vessel Scores Will Change Under ESI Core
With ESI Core entering into force, vessel scores will change. Based on OceanScore‘s newest available 2025 data, scores under ESI Core will be lower than today’s ESI Air Score.
This does not reflect a deterioration in vessel performance. It is solely the result of the updated methodology and scoring calculation. And for ports, this is an important distinction.
The methodology evolves from a partly technology-driven approach toward a more performance- and impact-based assessment framework that better reflects operational reality.
What This Means for Your Port Incentive Scheme
If qualification thresholds remain unchanged under ESI Core, significantly fewer vessels are expected to qualify for incentives. In some cases, coverage could decrease from around 50% of the fleet to approximately 20%.
To maintain a similar level of coverage and visibility, thresholds may need to be reduced by approximately 10–15 points.
Importantly, such adjustments do not increase incentive budgets. Instead, they help ensure that existing budgets continue to reward a meaningful share of environmentally performing vessels under the updated methodology.
Improved Transparency and Reporting for Ports
Beyond methodology changes, ESI Core also improves transparency and reporting capabilities for ports.
Enhanced quarterly insights powered by OceanScore data support ports with better visibility into:
-
vessel activity
-
sustainability trends
-
environmental performance developments
-
shore power usage
-
future infrastructure needs
This can support more informed decisions around sustainability strategies and infrastructure planning, including preparations for alternative fuels and shore power developments.
Why Action Is Needed Before 2027
Vessels will decide by 1 August 2026 whether to continue participating in ESI. The structure and attractiveness of incentive schemes will play an important role in that decision. Timely adjustment of thresholds helps ensure that port incentive schemes remain visible, relevant and effective under ESI Core.
Recommended Next Steps for Ports
Ports are encouraged to:
-
review the expected impact of ESI Core on current thresholds
-
assess current qualification coverage
-
adjust thresholds where needed
-
update incentive settings within the ESI Portal
Over the past months, OceanScore has benchmarked more than 100 incentive schemes and analysed multiple transition scenarios across more than 7,400 ESI vessels.
ESI Core represents the next step in modernizing environmental incentives for today’s shipping industry, creating a stronger foundation for future-oriented environmental and infrastructure strategies.
If you would like to discuss your scheme or receive additional support, please feel free to contact us directly.
