Wärtsilä completes engine modifications to reduce methane slip on Chevron LNG carriers
Wärtsilä has finalized the conversion of three LNG carriers for Chevron Transport Corporation to mitigate methane emissions during maritime operations.
Technology firm Wärtsilä has completed the conversion of dual-fuel engines to spark gas operation on three Chevron Transport Corporation liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. The technical adjustment is designed to minimize methane slip—a process where unburned methane escapes from engines into the atmosphere during combustion.
The project addresses a primary criticism of LNG as a maritime fuel: the environmental impact of leaked methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas. By transitioning to spark gas technology, Wärtsilä aims to improve the combustion efficiency of existing fleets, allowing shipping operators to lower their carbon footprint without requiring new vessel construction.
Following the completion of the initial three vessels, Wärtsilä and Chevron have confirmed plans for six additional conversions to be executed throughout the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. This initiative reflects a broader industry trend toward retrofitting existing maritime infrastructure to meet tightening global environmental regulations.