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A new 5,800-cubic-metre liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker and feeder vessel being built for Sirius Veder Gas AB at the Royal Bodewes shipyard in Hoogezand, Netherlands, is to be powered by a Wärtsilä propulsion solution following an agreement between both companies.

The Wärtsilä propulsion package comprises a 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF dual-fuel main engine [pictured] capable of running on either LNG or diesel, a reduction gearbox with power take-off (PTO), a shaft line suitable for use with environmentally friendly lubricants and equipped with a Wärtsilä Airguard aft seal that allows zero emissions, and a Wärtsilä controllable pitch propeller.

The latest Wärtsilä 34DF engine version features high power output and reduced fuel consumption in both gas and diesel modes. In gas mode, the vessel will comply with the IMO's Tier III NOx emission regulations without the need for secondary exhaust cleaning systems, Wärtsilä says.

"Since Wärtsilä introduced dual-fuel engine technology, more than 1300 Wärtsilä DF engines have been ordered. Similarly, bunkering and feeder vessels such as this one are also increasingly taking advantage of our proven technology. This extensive experience adds tremendous value as it allows us to provide expert engineering and project support to the yard, which importantly saves time and reduces risk," said Göran Österdahl, General Manager, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.

"We are committed to developing energy-efficient solutions for small to mid-size LNG shipping. The use of LNG as a marine fuel is rapidly increasing and there is growing demand for efficient bunker and feeder vessels. Wärtsilä has both the technology and the experience necessary to meet the needs of this market," remarked Jan Valkier, CEO of Anthony Veder.

When delivered, the ship is to be operated on a long-term charter by Skangass, a leading player in the Nordic and Finnish LNG markets. Sirius Veder Gas AB, the owner of the new vessel, is a joint venture formed between Swedish firm Sirius Rederi and Netherlands-based Anthony Veder Group.

The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery in 2016 and the vessel is due to be delivered in February 2017.