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Scrubbers: A mature platform for asset futureproofing

Embracing proven technology that can bridge the gap between current and future environmental regulations will enable the industry to move forward confidently, says Scott Oh of Wärtsilä Exhaust Treatment.

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Scott Oh, Director, Asia Operations at Wärtsilä Exhaust Treatment, recently shared with Singapore bunkering publication Manifold Times on their success in the current market for scrubbers and recent scrubber sales in Asia as well as elaborates on its CCS-Ready 35MW scrubber:

With the wide and relatively stable spread between high and low sulphur fuels, scrubbers continue to present a favourable economic proposition, and payback time has now reached less than two years for several vessel types. 

These technologies’ role in Global Sulphur Cap compliance is well known. But, today, beyond solely tackling SOx, scrubbers have become a platform from which multiple technologies can work together in the stack and throughout the exhaust chain. This includes tackling NOx emissions by adding selective catalytic reduction systems (SCR) or exhaust gas recirculation systems (EGR) to ensure compliance with MARPOL Tier III requirements. In addition, scrubbers can reduce Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 levels below even standard land-based requirements and a filter can be applied to capture microplastics. 

Finally, and most importantly, scrubbers can now also be installed in a way that sees them primed and ready for onboard CO2 capture and storage (CCS), making them a futureproofed investment for achieving marine decarbonisation goals in a short timeframe. This has been particularly recognised in Asia and by Asian shipowners, because it is here where Wärtsilä received its first order for CCS-Ready scrubbers in November 2022. This landmark order includes systems for four 8,200 TEU container vessels which will be fitted with Wärtsilä’s CCS-Ready 35MW scrubber in an open loop configuration. 

At its core, CCS-Ready means that Wärtsilä is conducting the requisite engineering and naval architecture at the outset to ensure adequate space for the future installation of a CCS system, as well as incorporating considerations for minimising idle load and optimising utilities, and preparing the control and automation system. 

Owners are looking to future-proof their existing fleet and newbuildings while the regulatory environment is still evolving and at a time when yard space is in high demand. Concurrently, they are taking advantage of higher charter rates, particularly in the container ship market, so for retrofits, minimising off-hire time is critical. They need a partner that has the ability, relationships and experience to cooperate with yards and manage the process from sales to installation. 

A first 2D layout drawing provides owners with an understanding of the scope of the installation and enables onboard space to be reserved. A full technical feasibility study can then be undertaken before or after contract signing. Owners typically make most decisions within the first four weeks after contract signing. This is when the equipment, piping and possible tanks are modelled, and owners may consider their preferences, such as tank locations, to ensure the design process is straightforward.

This phase also includes considerations on how best to futureproof the installation, leaving room for adaptation to CCS or hybrid functionality. The work required to allow for a CCS add-on is mainly done on the drawings at this stage, but some modifications can be made to the scrubber body. Space will need to be reserved above the scrubber and the funnel may need raising a few metres. In some cases, it makes sense to do this as early as possible.

Shipyard involvement is critical. Generally, shipyards should take the input of suppliers and ‘own’ the detailed designs themselves, ensuring a smooth and fast process that avoids confusion during installation. Co-operation between the basic and detailed designer remains important, and a good scrubber manufacturer will act as a link between all parties. In some cases, it is personal relationships and prudent communication skills more than the contract that can ensure positive, timely outcomes.

Wärtsilä has a strong presence in the Asian scrubber market after receiving Type Approval from the China Classification Society (CCS) in 2020. This was achieved when Dalian Shipbuilding Industry ordered a scrubber for the New Treasure, a newbuild VLCC. The vessel was built for Associated Maritime of Hong Kong, part of the China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES) group, the largest VLCC owner in China.

Owners’ confidence in scrubbers as a technology platform for compliance with IMO goals and the wider decarbonisation picture has increased with advanced scrubber solutions, and by choosing the right partners, they can be confident they will overcome the engineering challenges and remain competitive. 

 

Photo credit: Wärtsilä
Published: 3 August, 2023

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Biofuel

Singapore: Sea Oil Petroleum receives ISCC EU certification, mulls increasing product portfolio

‘Sea Oil seeks to do its part for climate change by giving options to support to our end users,’ says Steve Goh, Head of Trading.

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Singapore-based bunker trading firm Sea Oil Petroleum Pte Ltd (Sea Oil), a wholly owned subsidiary of Thailand-listed Sea Oil Public Company Limited, has received International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) EU certification, learned Manifold Times.

ISCC EU is a certification scheme that verifies compliance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids within the European Union. It ensures that biomass and biofuels used in the EU meet specific environmental and social requirements, including greenhouse gas emission reductions and traceability throughout the supply chain.

The milestone, which took place on 22 May after two months of processing, was reflective of the company’s aim to expand its bunker fuel product offerings to clients seeking sustainable solutions, Steve Goh, Head of Trading at Sea Oil, told the bunkering publication.

“It is important for the bunkering sector to remain relevant, adapt, and play an active role in supporting shipping’s decarbonisation journey,” said Mr Goh while adding that, “this is in line with our group’s green initiative and sustainability drive.”

“As such, Sea Oil seeks to do its part for climate change by giving options to support to our end users.

“By achieving ISCC EU certification, Sea Oil will be in a better position to provide green marine fuel solutions to customers embarking on this journey towards net zero.”

Manifold Times in May reported Sea Oil welcoming a Senior Bunker Trader to its team.

The company started 2025 with an expanded team on both international and local fronts.

Sea Oil Petroleum may be reached at: [email protected]

Related: Singapore: Sea Oil Petroleum boosts Asia and international presence with new Senior Bunker Trader
Related: Singapore: Sea Oil Petroleum enters 2025 with international representatives, expanded team

 

Photo credit: Sea Oil Petroleum
Published: 10 July 2025

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Wind-assisted

Anemoi unveils state-of-the-art rotor sail production facility in China

Site boasts an annual production capacity of 250 Rotor Sails, and the option to expand further and store units for fast turnaround.

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Wind propulsion solutions provider Anemoi Marine Technologies on Tuesday (8 July) officially opened its new Rotor Sail production facility in China.

Strategically located on the banks of the Yangtze River, Anemoi’s facility is located in Jingjiang City, Jiangsu Province, within Daming Heavy Industry’s manufacturing base.

The facility provides direct access to port infrastructure, enabling seamless logistics for import, export, and delivery.

With barge transport available on-site, Rotor Sails can be transported efficiently and installed directly at nearby major shipyards, streamlining operations and minimising environmental impact.

“This is more than just a new site,” said Clare Urmston, CEO of Anemoi.

“It’s a fully integrated, end-to-end production hub where every stage, from steel fabrication and precision assembly to rigorous testing and quality assurance, is handled under one roof.

“That means faster turnaround, uncompromised quality, and complete oversight by our expert team, on site, from start to finish. Anemoi’s strategy is quality first and this site enables exactly that.”

With an annual production capacity of 250 Rotor Sails, and the option to expand further and store units for fast turnaround, the new site positions Anemoi to meet surging global demand and support its customers in achieving critical decarbonisation goals.

 

Photo credit: Anemoi Marine Technologies
Published: 10 July 2025

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Milestone

Global Energy Storage Group sells Rotterdam terminal to Tepsa, exits Dutch market

Chooses to sharpen its focus on growth in Asia, particularly its flagship terminal in Port Klang, Malaysia.

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Global Energy Storage Group (GES) on Wednesday (9 July) announced the completion of the sale of its terminal located in the Port of Rotterdam., marking its exit from the Dutch market.

The facility, which includes 212,000 m³ of tank storage and approximately 18 hectares of development land in the Europoort area, was sold to Tepsa, a European bulk liquid and gas storage operator.

The transaction represents a key milestone for GES as it continues to focus its resources on expanding its presence in the fast-growing Asian market, with particular emphasis on its strategic terminal at Port Klang, Malaysia.

It also ensures that the Rotterdam terminal is passed into the hands of a high-quality follow-on owner well positioned to take the asset forward. The transaction also delivers a strong return for GES’s shareholders.

“Part of the investment cycle is realising value from assets at the right time, and we’re confident this was the right moment for GES,” commented Peter Vucins, CEO of GES.

“We are now fully focused on growing our business in Asia, with Port Klang at the centre of that strategy. We extend our sincere thanks to the Rotterdam team and our customers for their support and for maintaining a safe, reliable, and forward-looking operation throughout our ownership.”

With the sale of the Rotterdam terminal, GES no longer holds assets in the Netherlands.

 

Photo credit: Global Energy Storage Group
Published: 10 July 2025

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