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.