Swedish ferry operator Stena Line has contracted technology group Wärtsilä to convert its vessels to operate with methanol fuel.
The contract aims to equip the vessels with fuel flexibility, which Stena Line hopes can contribute to its credibility in sustainable shipping.
The conversions will include the fuel supply system and engine modifications, as well as integrating the new installations with the ships’ existing systems.
The contract was booked as order intake by Wärtsilä in June 2023.
Converting ferries for methanol fuel will reportedly enable Stena Line to be compliant with various existing and upcoming regulations, including the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), FuelEU Maritime, and IMO 2050 GHG reduction target.
Ian Hampton, Chief Operating Officer Fleet and Government Affairs, Stena Line, said: “As we continue to implement our strategy to decarbonise all our operations, we see methanol as a viable alternative fuel that will help us achieve this ambition.
“Wärtsilä has proven its capabilities to carry out the necessary conversions. This was shown eight years ago when they converted the Stena Germanica to operate with methanol, and our experience from this ground-breaking innovation has been very positive.”
Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä’s Marine Power Business, stated: “Like Stena Line, Wärtsilä is committed to making decarbonised shipping operations a reality, and we have invested heavily in developing our engine portfolio to be capable of utilising carbon neutral and zero carbon fuels.”
Wärtsilä’s supply package aims to comprise fuel tank instruments and valves, transfer pumps, low pressure pump skid, fuel valve trains, methanol fuel pump units and system automation, engine conversions, and engine control room automation upgrades.
The conversions are scheduled to begin in 2025.
In March, Wärtsilä was awarded a contract to supply reliquefaction systems for eight ships.
