Wärtsilä Launches Onboard Carbon Capture System for Maritime Industry
In a significant development in decarbonization efforts, Wärtsilä has introduced its onboard carbon capture system, marking a breakthrough in the maritime industry. The company has successfully conducted trials at sea and in Norway, demonstrating the system’s capability to capture CO2 from ship exhaust systems. This innovation is expected to have a profound impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the sector.
“CCS is a game-changer for the maritime industry, and we are already seeing tremendous interest in the market for this solution,” stated Håkan Agnevall, President and CEO of Wärtsilä.
According to Wärtsilä’s testing, the new system can potentially reduce vessel CO2 emissions by up to 70%, providing shipowners with a practical way to comply with carbon regulations without relying solely on expensive green fuels. The estimated total cost of implementing the system ranges from $54 to $76 per tonne of CO2, covering both capital and operating expenses. The system is designed to work with any carbon-based fuel and is user-friendly for ship crews to operate and maintain, as highlighted by Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä’s Marine Solutions division.
Wärtsilä initiated the development of this technology in 2019, and the commercial launch follows the successful retrofitting of the first shipboard system on Solvang ASA’s vessel, the Clipper Eris (18,000 dwt). The system has been operational since the Clipper Eris embarked on its journey from Singapore in February 2025.
As one of the leading suppliers of engineered solutions in the maritime industry, Wärtsilä aims to position itself as a strategic partner for shipowners rather than just a supplier of individual systems. Holm emphasized the importance of offering a comprehensive portfolio of technologies to assist owners in navigating the green transition effectively.
“We have the broadest offering portfolio in the maritime industry, encompassing green fuel engines, carbon capture, and efficiency enhancements. By providing a holistic approach, we can engage in strategic discussions with our customers, focusing on long-term sustainability goals rather than merely selling equipment,” stated Holm.
Considering the significance of costs and regulatory compliance in decision-making, Wärtsilä emphasizes tailoring solutions to meet each shipowner’s specific objectives and operational requirements. The company collaborates closely with customers to devise decarbonization strategies that align with financial feasibility and operational efficiency.
Given the long-term nature of decarbonization efforts, shipowners are encouraged to consider future-proofing their vessels by incorporating features that enable easy upgrades for technologies like CCS. Solvang ASA, the owner of the Clipper Eris, is working with Wärtsilä to design its next generation of ships with CCS readiness, including necessary infrastructure for potential future installations.