Technology group Wärtsilä has joined H4PERION, an EU-funded Horizon Europe project led by the University of Vaasa in Finland, to help accelerate the transition to zero-carbon long-distance shipping. The four-year project will develop and demonstrate solutions to improve engine efficiency and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Wärtsilä will contribute by developing a combustion concept that enables internal combustion engines to operate safely and efficiently on a blend of hydrogen and biomethane, with the aim of achieving up to 100% hydrogen operation in open-sea conditions.
“Several low‑carbon fuels are being explored within the industry, and hydrogen is considered one potential zero‑carbon option. 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,” says University of Vaasa’s Research and Development Director, Henri Karimäki.
In addition, Wärtsilä will develop a catalyst system to reduce methane slip and other emissions, supporting a lower overall lifecycle carbon footprint.
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.
“Achieving net zero emissions in shipping is a journey we must take together. It is only through close cross-industry collaboration and shared determination that we will further accelerate progress towards zero-carbon solutions for maritime,” says Anders Öster, General Manager, Research Coordination & Funding, Wärtsilä Marine.
H4PERION brings together 16 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. Their combined expertise will help ensure that the technologies developed in the project can be brought into practical use quickly and safely.
Media contact for more information on this release:
Isabella Alder
Positioning and Strategic Communications Manager
Wärtsilä Marine
Tel: +44 (0) 7792 681 757
marine.media@wartsila.com
Image caption: Wärtsilä will contribute to the H4PERION project by developing a combustion concept that enables internal combustion engines to operate safely and efficiently on a blend of hydrogen and biomethane, with the aim of achieving up to 100% hydrogen operation in open-sea conditions. © Wärtsilä Corporation
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Wärtsilä Marine in brief
Wärtsilä Marine is a global pioneer in power, propulsion and lifecycle solutions for the marine market. We develop industry-leading technologies, advancing maritime's transition to new fuels. We support building an end-to-end digital ecosystem where all vessels and ports are connected. Ultimately, Wärtsilä Marine is driving the shipping industry forward on its journey towards a decarbonised and sustainable future through our broad portfolio of engines, propulsion systems, hybrid technology, exhaust treatment, shaft line solutions and digital technologies, as well as integrated powertrain systems. Our offering, which is underpinned by our performance-based agreements, upgrades, lifecycle solutions, decarbonisation services, as well as an unrivalled global network of maritime expertise, delivers the efficiency, reliability, safety, and environmental performance needed to support a safe and sustainable future for our customers, our communities and our planet.
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Wärtsilä in brief
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy industries. We emphasise innovation in sustainable technology and services to help our customers continuously improve environmental and economic performance. Our dedicated and passionate team of 17,900 professionals in 199 locations in 78 countries shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. In 2025, Wärtsilä’s net sales totalled EUR 6.9 billion. Wärtsilä is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.
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