Wärtsilä has joined a European consortium developing hydrogen-capable engine technologies for long-distance shipping under the EU-funded H4PERION programme.
The company will contribute by developing engine technologies capable of operating on blends of hydrogen and biomethane with the aim of enabling up to 100 per cent hydrogen operation in open-sea conditions. The project is backed through the Horizon Europe framework and led by the University of Vaasa in Finland.
Wärtsilä also is working on developing catalyst systems intended to reduce methane slip and other emissions associated with dual-fuel combustion systems.
Henri Karimäki, research and development director at the University of Vaasa, said: ‘Several low-carbon fuels are being explored within the industry, and hydrogen is considered one potential zero-carbon option. By focusing on its practical application and safety in maritime contexts, the H4PERION project aims to advance innovation and set new standards for the industry.’
The programme includes onboard trials aboard the Aurora Botnia ferry, operated by Wasaline between Finland and Sweden. An identical full-scale engine will also be tested under laboratory conditions designed to mirror real sailing conditions.
Operational data from both environments will be used to develop a digital twin model for future design and performance analysis. The programme also includes training initiatives for crew and port workers linked to the handling and use of alternative fuels.
The H4PERION consortium includes 16 organisations from seven European countries, including ship designer Deltamarin, classification society American Bureau of Shipping and shipbuilder MEYER WERFT. The project is scheduled to run until May 2030.
Anders Öster, general manager for research coordination and funding at Wärtsilä Marine, commented: ‘Achieving net zero emissions in shipping is a journey we must take together. It is only through close cross-industry collaboration and shared determination that we will further accelerate progress towards zero-carbon solutions for maritime.’
