Helsinki | February 18, 2026 – In a move that reinforces the rapid expansion of the global LNG bunkering infrastructure, Wärtsilä Gas Solutions has announced a significant contract to supply integrated CHS (Cargo Handling System) and FGSS (Fuel Gas Supply System) for two newbuild 20,000 m³ LNG bunkering vessels.
The order, finalized in the fourth quarter of 2025, sees the technology group partnering with the Zhejiang XinLe Shipbuilding yard in China. The vessels are destined for a prominent Hong Kong-based shipowner, signaling continued confidence in LNG as a critical transitional fuel for the maritime industry.
Expanding the “Bridge” to Decarbonization
As the maritime sector faces tightening environmental regulations, LNG has emerged as the primary “bridge fuel,” offering a immediate reduction in sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter compared to heavy fuel oils. However, the viability of LNG-fueled fleets depends entirely on the availability of high-capacity bunkering vessels.
This latest project addresses that need directly. The 20,000 m³ capacity of these newbuilds places them at the higher end of the small-scale LNG segment, making them versatile assets for servicing both coastal traders and larger deep-sea vessels.
Technical Scope and Integration
Wärtsilä’s role extends beyond mere equipment supply. The contract covers a comprehensive suite of high-tech solutions designed to maximize operational safety and efficiency:
- LNG Cargo Handling Systems (CHS): Specialized for the complex thermal requirements of LNG storage and transfer.
- Fuel Gas Supply Systems (FGSS): Ensuring the vessels themselves can operate efficiently on gas.
- Integrated Control & Monitoring: A unified system to manage the entire cargo operation, reducing human error and optimizing boil-off gas (BOG) management.
- System Engineering & Design: Wärtsilä will oversee the technical architecture to ensure seamless integration with the Chinese-built hulls.
“The use of LNG is key in enabling a green shipping future,” said Barry Yang, General Manager of Sales for China at Wärtsilä Gas Solutions. “Our systems provide efficient solutions for bunkering vessels serving LNG-fueled ships, offering a flexible, well-proven solution for operational efficiency.”
Delivery Timeline
The project is set to move into the hardware phase shortly:
- Q4 2026: Equipment delivery to the Zhejiang XinLe Shipbuilding yard is scheduled to commence.
- H2 2027: Both vessels are expected to be delivered to the owner and enter active service.
Wärtsilä’s Strategic Footprint
The deal highlights Wärtsilä’s dominance in the gas value chain. Following a strong fiscal 2025, where the corporation reported net sales of EUR 6.9 billion, the company is doubling down on its “Portfolio Business” strategy. By focusing on storage, fuel transfer, and BOG management, Wärtsilä is positioning itself as the “backbone” of the infrastructure required for the industry’s decarbonization transformation.
For the bunkering market, this order is a clear indicator that despite the buzz surrounding ammonia and hydrogen, LNG infrastructure remains the most bankable investment for shipowners looking to meet current emission targets while maintaining global reach.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. We emphasise innovation in sustainable technology and services to help our customers continuously improve their environmental and economic performance. Our dedicated and passionate team of 17,900 professionals in more than 199 locations in 78 countries is shaping the decarbonisation of our industries across the globe. In 2025, Wärtsilä’s net sales totalled EUR 6.9 billion. Wärtsilä is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
About Wärtsilä Gas Solutions
Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, a part of the Wärtsilä Portfolio Business, is a market leader providing innovative systems and lifecycle solutions across the gas value chain. Its main areas of focus are the handling of gas in maritime, including storage, fuel, transfer, and Boil-Off Gas (BOG) management. The company is committed to innovation and digitalization to help customers achieve lifecycle performance and meet the industry’s sustainability challenges.
Source: Wartsila