Norwegian operator Color Line has taken proactive steps to enhance the environmental sustainability of its fleet by ordering a scrubber upgrade from Wärtsilä. This upgrade will see the addition of close-looped functionality to the current open-loop scrubbers on four of Color Line’s vessels.

The upgrade will be carried out on two large Color Line Ro-Pax and two high-speed Ro-Pax vessels that operate between Norway and Denmark, as well as Norway and Germany. The implementation is scheduled to begin towards the end of 2024.

Denmark’s recent announcement of a ban on the discharge of exhaust gas scrubber water near its coast has prompted Color Line to make this strategic move. By upgrading to a hybrid scrubber system, Color Line aims to maintain compliance with evolving regulations and minimize its environmental impact.

Per Erik Olsen, EVP Color Line Marine, emphasized the importance of the scrubber upgrade in aligning with Color Line’s environmental objectives. “Switching to Wärtsilä’s system will not only ensure our continued compliance with existing rules and regulations but will also future-proof our vessels against future requirements,” Olsen stated.

Wärtsilä’s hybrid scrubber systems are equipped with advanced exhaust cleaning technology to reduce sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions significantly. The solution can operate in both open and closed-loop modes, effectively removing 98% of SOx emissions along with reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions.

Kashif Javaid, Director of Sales for exhaust treatment at Wärtsilä Marine, highlighted the company’s commitment to developing sustainable abatement solutions. “We have worked closely with Color Line in the past and are pleased to continue supporting them in operating safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” Javaid said.