Wärtsilä will power the first UK domestic dual-fuel new build vessels, which are being built for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) based in Scotland.
The two ships, both 102m long ro-ro passenger ferries, will feature fully integrated Wärtsilä propulsion machinery packages.
They are being built by Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd at its yard located on the River Clyde in Glasgow.
“This project highlights the fact that high-end, technologically advanced commercial shipbuilding is again present in Scotland,” said Liam Campbell, managing director of Ferguson Marine Engine.
He continued: “We value Wärtsilä’s contribution as an important partner, not only in providing us with the latest dual-fuel technologies, but also through its comprehensive range of project support competences.”
“The project is at the forefront of marine engineering within the global ferry sector.”
In addition, Wärtsilä will also supply extended engineering and site support services.
The two ships will also be provided with two 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF main engines capable of operating on either LNG or conventional diesel fuels and two 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 20DF auxiliary engines.
Aaron Bresnahan, vice president of sales, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions, added: “Wärtsilä is proud to have been selected as the major machinery provider for these new ferries, which represent a significant milestone for the British maritime sector.”
“These Wärtsilä solutions promote environmental sustainability through the use of the latest marine propulsion technology.”
The ferries are scheduled to enter service during the second half of 2018. They will operate on various routes along the west coast of Scotland.