Wärtsilä has joined H4PERION, an EU-funded Horizon Europe project led by the University of Vaasa in Finland. The project is to help accelerate the transition to zero-carbon long-distance shipping. Wärtsilä will work on a combustion concept for hydrogen and biomethane.
The four-year project will develop and demonstrate solutions to improve engine efficiency and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
‘Several low carbon fuels are being explored within the industry, and hydrogen is considered one potential zero carbon option,’ says University of Vaasa’s Research and Development Director, Henri Karimäki. ‘By focusing on its practical application and safety in maritime contexts, the H4PERION project aims to advance innovation and set new standards for the industry. Collaboration across Europe will be key in achieving these outcomes.’
Blend of hydrogen and biomethane
In addition, Wärtsilä will develop a catalyst system to reduce methane slip and other emissions, supporting a lower overall lifecycle carbon footprint.
Ferry Aurora Botnia
Wärtsilä will demonstrate selected technologies onboard Wasaline’s ferry Aurora Botnia, with a focus on reducing the vessel’s emissions – particularly methane slip. The project also includes training programmes for crew and port workers and activities to support the safe use of sustainable fuels.
The H4PERION project will run for four years, until the end of May 2030. During this time, sea trials will be carried out onboard the Aurora Botnia ferry, which operates between Finland and Sweden. In parallel, an identical full-scale engine will be tested in a laboratory environment to mirror real sailing conditions and further optimise performance. Data from both demonstrations will feed into a digital twin model to support long-term learning and future design work.
Sixteen partners
H4PERION brings together sixteen partners from seven European countries, representing the maritime value chain from ship design and engine development to vessel operation, training, safety and academic research. In addition to the University of Vaasa and Wärtsilä, project partners include WEGEMT, NTUA, TalTech, the American Bureau of Shipping, Deltamarin, the University of Oulu, Åbo Akademi University, Meric Wave Computanics, DLR, BALance Technology Consulting, Meyer Werft and Wasaline.
