Wärtsilä joins EU project to advance hydrogen shipping engines

Wärtsilä has joined the EU-funded Horizon Europe project H4PERION, led by the University of Vaasa, to accelerate the development of zero-carbon propulsion technologies for long-distance shipping.

The project focuses on improving internal combustion engine performance using low-carbon and zero-carbon fuels, including hydrogen and biomethane. Wärtsilä will develop a combustion concept enabling engines to operate safely on hydrogen blends, with the long-term goal of achieving full hydrogen operation in open-sea conditions.

As part of the initiative, Wärtsilä will also work on catalyst systems aimed at reducing methane slip and other emissions, helping lower the overall lifecycle carbon footprint of marine operations. Selected technologies will be tested onboard the Wasaline ferry Aurora Botnia, operating between Finland and Sweden, alongside parallel full-scale laboratory engine trials to validate real-world performance.

Data from sea and lab testing will be integrated into digital twin models to support further optimisation and future engine design. The four-year project brings together 16 European partners across industry and academia, covering ship design, engine development, safety, and maritime operations, with the aim of translating hydrogen-based propulsion technologies into practical commercial use for the shipping sector.