Pacific Gas orders Wärtsilä systems for VLECs
Illustration of the VLEC
(Source: Wärtsilä)
Hong Kong-based Pacific Gas has ordered cargo handling and fuel supply systems from technology group Wärtsilä for four very large ethane carriers (VLECs) currently under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard in China.
The VLECs, which are designed principally for the transport of ethane and will use it as fuel, are due for delivery in late 2025. Wärtsilä will supply the equipment during the first half of 2024 and will also provide basic and detailed engineering services, supervision, and commissioning of the vessels.
Harald Øverland, sales manager for Cargo Handling and Fuel Supply Systems at Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, said: "The aim with all our products is to secure good quality and functionality that supports optimal operations for the vessel while adding value to the customer’s business. Our track record speaks for itself, and this contract further extends our market position."
The Wärtsilä division has key focus areas including gas transport by sea – storage, fuel, transfer and boil-off management – as well as gas to power, liquefaction, and biogas systems.
Ethane is a colourless, odourless hydrocarbon with a chemical formula of C2H6. It is mainly used to make ethylene, an essential feedstock in the manufacture of plastics.
