Technology group Wärtsilä will supply a hybrid-electric propulsion system for an 11,000dwt limestone carrier. The vessel was contracted by Montreal-based CSL Group with CCCC Shanghai Equipment Engineering and Jingjiang Nanyang Shipbuilding.
Wärtsilä has been closely involved in developing the concept for the hybrid-electric propulsion system selected to optimize the engine and battery loading for the ship’s operating conditions. The system will provide redundancy when operating in confined waters to improve safety, while at the same time improving efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.
“We require an electrically integrated hybrid-powered propulsion solution from a single-source supplier capable of providing lifecycle support. Wärtsilä was selected for our new-build project because of their proven ability, experience and track record in delivering high-quality electrification and hybridization systems,” said Frédéric Jauvin, CSL’s vice president, global technical services.
The limestone carrier, when delivered in 2026, will be the world’s first fully electric battery-capable self-unloading vessel. It will initially run on a hybrid diesel and battery system, with 50% of the total battery capacity installed replacing diesel with electric power. By 2031, the aim is to run the ship entirely on electric power, further reducing carbon emissions to less than 10%.
“Wärtsilä is committed to making decarbonized shipping possible, so we are delighted to be supporting CSL with solutions that enhance the sustainability of their fleet,” said Torsten Büssow, director, electrical and power Ssystems business, Wärtsilä Marine. “This is a short sea shipping vessel that will operate with a lot of maneuvering and variable load profiles, and electrification and hybridization systems are the most efficient for such vessels.”
Wärtsilä will supply the whole hybrid electric propulsion system for the vessel, including generators, DC hub, energy and power management system, main propulsion e-motors, bow thruster e-motors and the battery solution. Delivery is scheduled for early 2025.