Wärtsilä propulsion system selected for ‘world’s largest’ methanol-ready cement carrier

Finnish technology firm Wärtsilä has been contracted to supply a complete propulsion package for what is expected to be the world’s largest methanol-ready cement carrier.

The propulsion package was ordered for the 38,000 dwt methanol dual-fuel cement carrier owned by NovaAlgoma Cement Carriers (NACC), a cement shipping joint venture between Nova Marine Group and Algoma Central Corporation.

The ship is being constructed at the Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding in China and is expected to be launched in late 2026.

Once built, it will be the world’s largest vessel of its type and the first with a methanol-ready notation.

Under the contract, two Wärtsilä 32 engines, one Wärtsilä 25 auxiliary engine, two gearboxes, two controllable pitch propellers, one tunnel thruster, three selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment systems, the propulsion control system, two shaft generators (PTO/PTI) and engine accessory items will be delivered, commencing in November 2025.

Just recently, Swedish product company Climeon also received an order for the HeatPower 300 system, an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) waste heat recovery technology, to be installed as owner-furnished equipment (OFE) on the 38,000 dwt newbuild.

As explained, the HeatPower 300 unit will generate up to 300 kW of sustainable electricity on board the cement carrier by harnessing low-grade waste heat from the engine cooling water and exhaust gases.

By reclaiming energy that would otherwise be lost in conventional operations, this solution reduces fuel consumption and emissions, directly supporting the shipping company’s sustainability objectives.

In addition, the RINA-classed vessel will be equipped with a shore power system, a ballast water treatment system, and an air lubrication system.