Finland-based Tech Group Wärtsilä to Deliver Hybrid Propulsion System for Aasen Shipping Bulker
Finland-based technology group Wärtsilä has been chosen to supply an integrated hybrid propulsion system for a bulk carrier under construction at the Dutch Royal Bodewes shipyard for Norwegian maritime transport company Aasen Shipping.
According to Wärtsilä officials, the 9,500 dwt bulker is the latest in a series of six vessels equipped with similar technology from the company. Aasen Shipping and Royal Bodewes previously placed a comparable order in December 2023, covering three ships.
The new eco-friendly vessel will be powered by a six-cylinder Wärtsilä 25 main engine fitted with a Wärtsilä NOx Reducer, a Wärtsilä gearbox, a controllable pitch propeller with shaft line, and a Wärtsilä ProTouch remote propulsion control solution.
The hybrid propulsion package includes a DC hub, a 620kWh battery system, and a control platform featuring battery, power, and energy management systems. The medium-speed four-stroke Wärtsilä 25 engine has also been engineered to allow future upgrades enabling operation on low- and zero-carbon fuels.
Delivery of the equipment is expected in the first half of 2027.
By leveraging this integrated technology scope, Aasen Shipping aims to optimize operations, reduce fuel consumption, and improve environmental performance. These enhancements align with both the company’s own sustainability targets and global decarbonization goals.
Aasen Shipping and Royal Bodewes have collaborated on several specialized bulk carrier projects in recent years. In November 2023, they signed agreements for the construction of three hybrid-powered, methanol-ready self-dischargers.
One vessel from this series, the 9,400 dwt Aasvaer, was delivered to Aasen Shipping on October 17 following successful sea trials earlier that month. The second newbuild is approaching its launch, based on information available from the shipyard.
