Technology group Wärtsilä has secured a contract to upgrade the exhaust treatment systems onboard four vessels in the fleet of Norwegian operator Color Line. This significant upgrade involves the addition of closed-loop functionality to the ships’ existing open-loop scrubbers, a move that will enhance operational efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. The order was officially recorded by Wärtsilä in the third quarter of 2024.
Addressing the Industry’s Push for Sustainability
As the maritime industry increasingly focuses on energy efficiency and reducing emissions, ship owners and operators are actively seeking advanced solutions to optimize vessel performance and meet stringent environmental regulations. Color Line’s decision to upgrade to a hybrid scrubber system is a strategic move to gain control over scrubber wash water abatement, ensuring compliance with evolving international regulations.
Per Erik Olsen, Executive Vice President of Color Line Marine, emphasized the importance of this upgrade, stating “This scrubber upgrade supports our focus on minimizing the environmental impact of our operations. Switching to Wärtsilä’s system will not only ensure our continued compliance with existing rules and regulations but will also future proof our vessels against future requirements.”
Wärtsilä’s Hybrid Scrubber Technology
Wärtsilä’s hybrid scrubber systems represent the cutting edge of exhaust cleaning technology. These systems are designed to significantly reduce sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions, which are a major contributor to air pollution from ships. By allowing the vessel to operate in both open and closed-loop modes, using seawater to remove SOx from the exhaust gases, the system can eliminate up to 98% of SOx emissions. Additionally, the system reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions, further enhancing environmental performance.
Kashif Javaid, Director of Sales, Exhaust Treatment at Wärtsilä Marine, commented on the collaboration “Through adopting a modular approach, continuous research and development, as well as prioritizing innovation, we are fully committed to developing abatement solutions which support the industry in its goals for reducing its emissions footprint. We have worked closely with Color Line in the past and are pleased to continue to support them with ensuring their assets operate safely, efficiently, and sustainably.”
Strategic Upgrades Across Color Line’s Fleet
The planned upgrades will be implemented on four Ro-Pax vessels within Color Line’s fleet, specifically two large Ro-Pax ships and two high-speed Ro-Pax vessels. These ships, which operate routes between Norway and Denmark, and Norway and Germany, are scheduled for the upgrade towards the end of 2024. The enhancement of these vessels’ exhaust systems underscores Color Line’s commitment to sustainable operations and regulatory compliance in one of the world’s most environmentally conscious regions.
About Wärtsilä Marine
Wärtsilä Marine is a global pioneer in power, propulsion, and lifecycle solutions for the marine market. The company is at the forefront of developing industry-leading technologies, advancing the maritime industry’s transition to new fuels, and fostering an interconnected digital ecosystem for vessels and ports.
Wärtsilä Marine is dedicated to driving the shipping industry towards a decarbonized and sustainable future, offering a comprehensive portfolio that includes engines, propulsion systems, hybrid technology, exhaust treatment solutions, shaft line systems, and digital technologies. Their performance-based agreements, upgrades, lifecycle solutions, and decarbonization services are supported by an unrivaled global network of maritime expertise, delivering the efficiency, reliability, safety, and environmental performance required for a sustainable future.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. The company places a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, helping customers continuously improve their environmental and economic performance. With a dedicated team of 17,800 professionals in more than 280 locations across 79 countries, Wärtsilä is at the forefront of driving the decarbonization transformation across various industries. In 2023, Wärtsilä’s net sales totaled EUR 6.0 billion, and the company is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
Source Wartsila