Member Spotlight: Ocomp
This month we are proud to feature Ocomp as our Member of the Month! A Norwegian-based maritime training institution approved by the Norwegian Maritime Authority specializing in lithium-ion battery safety, the company plays a crucial role in ensuring that the transition to electrified shipping is both safe and sustainable. Ocomp was lithium-ion course portfolio was established following a research initiative launched in 2019, triggered by the Yttereiningen ferry explosion, a pivotal event that highlighted the urgent need for structured knowledge and safety protocols around battery systems at sea.
Since its founding, Ocomp has positioned itself as a leader in maritime safety training, combining practical operational insight with technical expertise to support crews, shipowners, and regulators navigating the complexities of battery-powered vessels. The Maritime Battery Forum and Ocomp are now intensifying their collaboration to develop and promote battery safety training for the maritime industry globally.
The collaboration solidifies with the “Managing a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Onboard a Vessel course”, designed exclusively for technical personnel and individuals engaged in shore-based roles within the shipping industry.
Ocomp’s Managing a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Onboard a Vessel course equips maritime professionals with the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely recognize, assess, and respond to lithium-ion battery incidents in a marine environment.
From Research to Industry Standard
Ocomp’s impact on the maritime sector has been significant, particularly in Norway, where it has helped shape national safety guidelines and mandatory training requirements for battery systems onboard ships. Through its programs, the company has already trained approximately 4,000 seafarers, equipping them with the skills needed to safely operate and respond to incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.
This work has contributed directly to raising the safety baseline for maritime electrification, ensuring that crews are not only aware of risks but are also prepared to handle them effectively in real-world scenarios.
Strengthening Global Reach Through Acquisition
Ocomp has recently entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Apave, a French multinational organization with approximately 20,000 employees. This partnership significantly expands Ocomp’s reach and resources, enabling it to scale its training capabilities and extend its expertise beyond Norway into international markets.
With the backing of a global safety and certification leader, Ocomp is well positioned to influence maritime battery safety standards on a broader scale.
Leadership Rooted in Experience
At the helm of Ocomp is General Manager Eirik Eidem, whose maritime career spans both military and commercial operations worldwide. Eirik has held key positions within maritime safety and security, including assignments in the Middle East, at NATO Shipping Centre in London, and various leadership positions at sea. Throughout his career, he has served on a wide range of vessel types and led search and rescue operations, gaining first-hand experience managing safety and security challenges in demanding maritime environments. This operational background provides a strong foundation for Ocomp’s focus on practical and realistic safety training.
Under his leadership, Ocomp continues to deliver practical, experience-based training grounded in real-world maritime operations. The company focuses on ensuring that safety procedures are not only compliant and effective, but also relevant and applicable for crews operating modern vessels worldwide.
Challenges in Maritime Battery Safety
Ocomp identifies one of the biggest challenges in maritime electrification as the lack of competence and related safety regulations in the industry. While Norway has taken a leading role in requiring battery safety training, many other regions rely on voluntary adoption.
This creates a gap where companies may delay or avoid investing in training unless it is mandated, potentially increasing risk as battery systems become more widespread. Bridging this regulatory gap is critical to ensuring that safety standards keep pace with technological adoption.
The Future of Maritime Batteries
Ocomp sees batteries becoming a standard component on all vessels in the years ahead, driven by both economic benefits and increasing demands from operators and charterers. In short-range operations, particularly in regions like Norway, fully electric or hybrid vessels are already becoming the norm.
For longer routes, however, the company expects hybrid solutions to dominate, as fully electric propulsion remains limited by range and energy density constraints. Large vessels, such as cruise ships, still face significant limitations highlighting the importance of combining batteries with other power sources.
Despite these challenges, the direction of travel is clear: batteries will play a central role in maritime operations, whether for propulsion, energy optimization, or emissions reduction.
Looking Ahead
With a strong foundation in safety training, a growing international presence, and deep industry expertise, Ocomp is uniquely positioned to support the safe rollout of maritime electrification worldwide.
As battery adoption accelerates, the importance of training, preparedness, and operational understanding will only increase. Ocomp’s work ensures that the industry not only embraces new technology but does so responsibly placing safety at the heart of the transition.
About the Maritime Battery Forum
The Maritime Battery Forum was founded with the aim of promoting new and efficient energy storage technologies in the maritime industry. With over 90 members across 3 continents, the MBF works to disseminate information, facilitate discussion, and accelerate the journey towards a zero-emission maritime future.
Contact :
Ayomide Miracle Salifu
Community & Communications Manager
Email: ayomidesalifu@maritimebatteryforum.com
Website: www.maritimebatteryforum.com
