CMM and Wärtsilä Launch World’s First Ethanol-Powered PSV for Sustainable Maritime Future

CMM and Wärtsilä have joined forces to create the world’s first ethanol-powered offshore support vessels (PSVs), as outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed by the two companies. This collaboration underscores their shared commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry. The innovative design concept for these vessels will utilize Wärtsilä’s versatile multifuel engine platform, the Wärtsilä 32. In a significant development earlier this year, Wärtsilä successfully conducted tests using ethanol as the primary fuel in a full-scale Wärtsilä 32 engine, demonstrating its ability to operate efficiently on a range of fuels.

CMM has secured preliminary financial approval from the Brazilian merchant marine fund (FMM) to construct 10 ethanol-powered offshore support vessels in Brazil. This move aligns with CMM’s vision of creating a cleaner fuel fleet for operations both domestically and internationally. The partnership between CMM and Wärtsilä sets an accelerated timeline for the construction of the first vessel, marking a major milestone in the industrial application of the Wärtsilä 32 multifuel platform. Together, the two companies aim to lead the maritime industry towards a more sustainable future.

Christophe Vancauwenbergh, CEO of CMM, expressed excitement about collaborating with Wärtsilä to pioneer ethanol-powered vessels in the maritime sector. He emphasized the goal of building these vessels in Brazil to help customers achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and promote a greener future for the maritime industry. Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine, highlighted the company’s dedication to developing and testing low and zero-carbon marine fuel technologies. He emphasized Wärtsilä’s alignment with CMM’s vision of advancing the maritime industry towards net-zero emissions shipping, reinforcing their commitment to innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

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