BW LPG takes up option for further ME-LGIP retrofits

The order increases BW LPG’s orders for ME-LGIP engines to eight, before its first retrofit conversion has entered service. BW LPG announced that the results of tests conducted jointly with classification society DNV GL, fuel supply system provider Wärtsilä Gas Solutions and MAN ES had exceeded expectations. BW had previously expected the dual-fuel LPG engine to achieve fuel efficiency savings of 11%.

LPG MAN ES previously told The Motorship that the ME-LGIP engine achieved reductions of up to 18% in CO2 and circa 90% in particulate matter emissions when running on LPG, compared with HSFO.

Anders Onarheim, BW LPG CEO noted “As the world’s largest owner and operator of VLGCs, BW LPG leverages on our scale and deep expertise in maritime shipping to invest in R&D and implement pioneering technology onboard that will push our industry towards decarbonization – technology that can be implemented on at least 50 percent of current global VLGC fleet without the need for dedicated newbuilding orders.”

BW confirmed the retrofitting of the first four MAN B&W 6G60ME-C9.2 HFO-burning engines to 6G60ME-C9.5-LGIP LPG-propelled dual-fuel engines is taking place as planned during scheduled drydockings this year.