Solstad Offshore has begun a project in partnership with Wärtsilä that aims to create a 50% reduction in its offshore vessels’ CO2 emissions by 2030.
The agreement aims to identify, evaluate, and implement technologies and workflow processes that will increase fuel efficiency and significantly reduce the production of greenhouse gases (GHG). Each vessel will be assessed for appropriate technology implementations, possible operational improvements and life extension considerations.
The company says that its ultimate goal is to reach full carbon neutrality by 2050.
“Cooperation is essential if we are to implement the solutions needed to succeed with the green shift that is underway. For this reason, we at Solstad are partnering with forward-looking companies such as Wärtsilä who have the expertise, experience, and innovative technologies required,” said Tor Inge Dale, Head of Sustainability at Solstad Offshore.
Solstad has already been working systematically to reduce emissions since 2009, both through operational measures and technical upgrades. These have so far resulted in average fuel consumption per vessel being reduced by more than 20%.
The further reduction to 50% is expected to be reached by optimising energy efficiencies and by retrofitting the vessels to operate with alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol. Additionally, new ship designs must be capable of offering low or zero emissions from the outset, the company says.
Wärtsilä will initially act an advisor and technical expert for Solstad on the project. The agreement also allows the company to act as a possible supplier for the decarbonisation systems and technologies selected, where appropriate.
