Wärtsilä’s propeller cap EnergoProFin listed in EcoAction Program

Wärtsilä’s energy-saving propeller cap EnergoProFin has been listed in the 2019 Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s EcoAction Program.

EngeroProFin delivers average fuel savings of 2%.

The programme provides harbour dues discounts for vessels calling on the Port of Vancouver that meet environmental best practices, as well as reduce emissions and underwater noise.

EnergoProFin secured the listing in the vessel-quieting category, which awards a 23% discount in harbour dues for vessels using the technology.

Wärtsilä’s EnergoProFin incorporates fins that rotate with the propeller, minimising the cavitation caused by the propeller’s hub vortex.

The system cuts energy losses caused by the flow phenomena around and behind the propeller boss. This increases overall propulsion efficiency and lowers fuel consumption.

The system, which has been installed on more than 350 vessels to date, is optimised to fit the vessel’s specific operating profile.

Wärtsilä Marine Hydrodynamics manager Anton Voermans said: “The Wärtsilä EnergoProFin is designed to deliver both energy efficiency and environmental sustainability for ship owners.

“Our listing in the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s EcoAction Program is an honour that supports Wärtsilä’s commitment to cleaner, safer, quieter and more efficient shipping.”

The incentive aims to encourage shipping companies to lower their underwater noise levels that affect the at-risk whale population in the Vancouver area of Canada.

Vessels fitted with the system will be issued a certificate by Wärtsilä so that they can take advantage of the harbour dues discount.

Through its EcoAction Program, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority increased the number of underwater noise-reducing options and updated the air emissions reduction choices eligible for discounted harbour dues on 1 January.