Introduction

The European Commission has released new technical guidance for continuous engine power monitoring on fishing vessels. From January 10, 2028, fishing vessels above 221 kW using towed gear must comply with strict requirements for permanently installed shaft power measurement systems.

The regulation is part of the revised EU Control Regulation and aims to improve transparency, enforcement, and fair competition in the fishing industry. For vessel owners, this means the time to act is now to ensure timely compliance.

Why this regulation?

The European Union is accelerating the shift toward digital monitoring and data-driven fisheries control. Continuous engine power monitoring enables authorities to:

• Enforce engine power limits more effectively
• Prevent unfair competition and illegal practices
• Improve transparency and sustainability in fisheries

This marks a major transition from periodic inspections to continuous onboard monitoring.

What is changing?

The new guidance defines clear technical requirements for onboard engine power monitoring systems. Vessels within scope must install a permanent system that continuously measures, records, and stores engine power data.

Key requirements include:

• Continuous measurement of shaft power
• Shaft torque measurement
• Accuracy within 2.5%
• Tamper-proof system design with risk mitigation measures
• Accessible onboard data storage

These requirements are defined under Article 39a of the EU Control Regulation and establish a new compliance standard for the fishing fleet.

The challenge for fishing vessels

For many fishing vessels, meeting the new requirements presents practical challenges:

• Limited space in engine rooms
• Harsh and corrosive operating environments
• Integration with existing onboard systems
• Certification and Flag State approval procedures

Selecting a solution designed specifically for the maritime environment is therefore essential.

How VAF supports compliance

As the inventors of ShaPoLi technology, VAF has been a pioneer in continuous shaft power measurement for many years.

The combination of the T-Sense torque measurement system and the SPU3 processing unit fully meets — and exceeds — the new EU technical specifications.

Key features:

• Optical shaft power measurement with certified accuracy
• Continuous recording and onboard data storage
• Tamper-proof design with comprehensive risk mitigation
• Full compliance with Article 39a

Why choose VAF?

Unlike generic off-the-shelf solutions, VAF systems are purpose-built for maritime applications. VAF stands out through:

• Decades of expertise in shaft power measurement
• In-house design and manufacturing in the Netherlands
• Solutions tailored to limited space and harsh conditions
• Highest quality and reliability standards

This makes the systems especially suitable for retrofit projects on existing fishing vessels.

What should you do now?

With less than three years until the deadline, vessel owners should start preparing today.

Recommended next steps:

1. Determine whether your vessel falls under the new requirements

2. Consult your Flag State authority regarding approval procedures

3. Plan retrofitting during your next scheduled maintenance or drydock

The guidance also recommends Member States conduct pilot projects before 2028. Early adopters can benefit from:

• Real-world operational experience
• Smoother certification processes
• Reduced time pressure closer to the deadline