Technology group Wärtsilä has signed a groundbreaking contract with Norwegian shipowner Eidesvik Offshore to supply equipment for the conversion of the offshore platform supply vessel (PSV) ‘Viking Energy’ to operate using ammonia fuel. Scheduled for conversion in early 2026, the ‘Viking Energy’ will become the world’s first ammonia-fuelled in-service ship, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s journey toward sustainable fuel solutions.
The ‘Viking Energy,’ currently under contract with energy major Equinor, will undergo this conversion with financial support from both Equinor and Wärtsilä. Wärtsilä will provide the engine, a complete fuel gas supply system, and exhaust after-treatment necessary for the transition, utilizing its newly released ammonia solution. This development underscores Wärtsilä’s commitment to advancing ammonia as a viable alternative fuel in the shipping sector.
Ammonia has emerged as a promising fuel option as the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices. With global regulations setting a clear goal for net-zero emissions by mid-century, ammonia is positioned to play a crucial role in reducing maritime emissions. Wärtsilä’s recent report highlights that while current decarbonization measures like fuel efficiency can cut shipping emissions by up to 27%, sustainable fuels such as ammonia will be essential in addressing the remaining 73% of emissions.
Håkan Agnevall, President and CEO of Wärtsilä, emphasized the necessity of industry-wide collaboration to achieve net-zero emissions within the vessel’s 25-year lifespan: “Achieving this ambitious goal will require a unified effort from all maritime stakeholders to implement the system changes necessary for adopting new generations of sustainable fuels.”
Agnevall further remarked, “With this new contract, Wärtsilä is proud to lead the charge in this pivotal shift. Our commitment to decarbonisation drives our strategy, and we are dedicated to developing and delivering solutions that not only validate the use of sustainable fuels but also ensure their safety.”
Wärtsilä, Eidesvik, and Equinor have a history of collaborative efforts in pioneering environmental technologies. Notably, Eidesvik was the first to operate an LNG-powered offshore PSV and received the world’s first Battery Power notation for Viking Energy, which was equipped with a battery system provided by Wärtsilä.
This latest initiative is part of the ‘Apollo’ project, co-funded by the Horizon Europe framework programme. The programme supports projects aimed at accelerating Europe’s transition to climate neutrality by 2050 through innovative research and solutions across various sectors.
Gitte Gard Talmo, CEO & President of Eidesvik Offshore, highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving a green transition: “Eidesvik has a proud history of pioneering emission-reducing technologies. We are excited to lead yet another groundbreaking project alongside Wärtsilä and Equinor.”
For this conversion project, Wärtsilä will supply its 25 Ammonia engine, the AmmoniaPac Fuel Gas Supply System, the Wärtsilä Ammonia Release Mitigation System (WARMS), and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system designed specifically for ammonia. A comprehensive service agreement for maintenance is also a key component of the deal. The conversion is slated for early 2026, with final commissioning expected in the second quarter of 2026.
Wärtsilä in Brief
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets, emphasizing sustainable technology and services to enhance environmental and economic performance. With 17,800 professionals in over 280 locations across 79 countries, Wärtsilä is dedicated to the global decarbonization of various industries. In 2023, Wärtsilä’s net sales totaled EUR 6.0 billion. The company is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
Wärtsilä Marine in Brief
Wärtsilä Marine is a global pioneer in power, propulsion, and lifecycle solutions for the marine market. The company is advancing maritime’s transition to new fuels and building an integrated digital ecosystem for vessels and ports. Wärtsilä Marine drives the industry towards a sustainable future with a broad portfolio of engines, propulsion systems, hybrid technology, exhaust treatment, and digital solutions. Its offering, supported by performance-based agreements and lifecycle solutions, ensures efficiency, reliability, safety, and environmental performance for a sustainable maritime future.
Source Wartsila Marine