BW to retrofit LPG propulsion to four more vessels

BW LPG has announced that it has exercised an option for the delivery of four additional LPG dual-fuel engines. With this, BW LPG has committed to retrofit eight vessels with pioneering propulsion technology.

This announcement follows a press release dated 30 August 2018, where BW LPG announced a world’s first initiative to retrofit four LPG dual-fuel engines in its fleet. BW LPG, together with Class (DNV GL), Wärtsilä Gas Solutions and MAN ES, has since subjected the prototype to rigorous tests successfully, with performance exceeding expectations. When retrofitting is complete, BW LPG will reap benefits across many fronts such as fuel cost and voyage efficiencies. Most importantly, this represents a significant step forward in our efforts at reducing air emissions.

The retrofitting of the first four LPG dual-fuel engines into four Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs) is taking place as planned this year.

Anders Onarheim, BW LPG CEO, said:

“As the world’s largest owner and operator of VLGCs, BW LPG leverages on our scale and deep expertise in maritime shipping to invest in R&D and implement pioneering technology onboard that will push our industry towards decarbonization - technology that can be implemented on at least 50 percent of current global VLGC fleet without the need for dedicated newbuilding orders.

This is our commitment to sustainable development, which we pursue while keeping our focus on safe and reliable operations, so that we can continue to provide industry-leading customer service and generate better returns for our shareholders.”