The four-year project brings together 16 partners from seven European countries across the maritime value chain – from ship design and engine development to vessel operation, classification, and research. The objective is to develop and demonstrate practical solutions that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining the high reliability required for long-distance maritime transport.

H4PERION addresses this by developing and demonstrating a hydrogen-capable internal combustion engine at full scale. The project brings together key elements such as fuel-flexible engine concepts, hydrogen supply systems and advanced emissions control.

These technologies will be tested both onboard Wasaline’s ferry AURORA BOTNIA and in parallel full-scale laboratory conditions, with the results feeding into future vessel and system development. Wärtsilä is also among the partners in H4PERION.

The Vaasa-based technology group and system integrator will contribute by developing a combustion concept that enables internal combustion engines to operate safely and efficiently on a blend of hydrogen and biomethane, with the aim of achieving up to 100% hydrogen operation in open-sea conditions. In addition, Wärtsilä will develop a catalyst system to reduce methane slip and other emissions, supporting a lower overall lifecycle carbon footprint.

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