Wärtsilä, a technology group, has recently announced that they will be supplying their latest carbon capture and storage-ready scrubber systems, known as CCS-Ready scrubbers, to three container ships owned by German operator Leonhardt & Blumberg. This new technology will not only ensure compliance with current SOx emissions regulations but also pave the way for a smooth transition to CCS systems in the future. This marks one of the first retrofit projects in the marine industry that is being prepared for CCS implementation.
The decision to invest in this technology is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the operational expenses of the vessels. By enabling the ships to operate with cheaper and more readily available fuel (HFO), the Wärtsilä scrubber systems will help reduce costs while also lowering the carbon footprint of the ships. This aligns with the industry’s goals for decarbonization and sustainability.
What sets the CCS-Ready scrubbers apart is the additional design and engineering work that Wärtsilä will be undertaking to ensure that future retrofits for a full CCS system can be seamlessly integrated onto the vessels. This integrated system will focus on removing various pollutants from the exhaust in a modular fashion, with the remaining carbon being scrubbed and stored onboard for safe disposal upon reaching port.
The three 3600 TEU container vessels will be equipped with a CCS-Ready, VGP-compliant, 27.5 MW Wärtsilä scrubber system, ensuring compliance with regulations globally. The fast-track delivery of these systems will begin in September, with Greentec Marine Engineering handling the retrofit engineering and installation onboard the vessels. Greentec Marine Engineering is a reputable company specializing in marine and offshore engineering services, guaranteeing a high-quality installation process.
This strategic partnership between Wärtsilä, Leonhardt & Blumberg, and Greentec Marine Engineering showcases a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and regulatory compliance in the maritime industry. By investing in future-proof technology like CCS-Ready scrubber systems, these companies are leading the way towards a more environmentally friendly and efficient shipping industry.