Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has secured a contract to supply a hybrid-electric propulsion system for an 11,000 dwt limestone carrier being built for Canadian shipping company Canada Steam Ship Lines Group (CSL Group).
Wärtsilä played a significant role in developing the concept for the hybrid-electric propulsion system, designed to optimize engine and battery loading for the ship’s operating conditions.
The company will supply the complete hybrid-electric propulsion system, including generators, a DC hub, an energy and power management system, main propulsion e-motors, bow thruster e-motors, and the battery solution. Delivery is scheduled for early 2025.
This system will provide redundancy when operating in confined waters, enhancing safety, efficiency, and fuel consumption reduction.
CSL Group ordered the vessel from CCCC Shanghai Equipment Engineering and Jingjiang Nanyang Shipbuilding, reflecting its commitment to reducing emissions through a comprehensive decarbonization strategy.
According to CSL Group, the limestone carrier, set for delivery in 2026, will be the world’s first fully electric battery-capable self-unloading vessel. Initially, it will operate on a hybrid diesel and battery system, with 50% of the total battery capacity installed, replacing diesel with electric power.
By 2031, the goal is to operate the ship entirely on electric power, reducing carbon emissions by less than 10%.
“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.
“Wärtsilä is committed to making decarbonized shipping possible, so we are delighted to support CSL with solutions that enhance the sustainability of their fleet,” commented Torsten Büssow, Director, Electrical & Power Systems Business Wärtsilä Marine.
“This short sea shipping vessel will operate with a lot of maneuvering and variable load profiles, and electrification and hybridization systems are the most efficient for such vessels.”
