Pilot CCS installed on LR2 products tanker

Scorpio Tankers has installed a Carbon Ridge carbon capture system (CCS) on board its 110,000dwt products tanker, STI Spiga. The centrifugal system is believed to be the first installation of its type and was carried out at Besiktas Shipyard in Turkey.  

Santa Monica-based Carbon Ridge claims that its technology cuts initial capital investment and operating costs while also yielding greater efficiency compared with other types of CCS systems. It requires up to 75% less space and can be installed vertically or horizontally depending on shipboard constraints.

The system is designed for both retrofits and newbuildings, works effectively with different fuels, and has the advantage of flexibility without requiring major propulsion system overhauls, the company said. Captured carbon dioxide is compressed, liquefied, and stored during a voyage and then offloaded at a suitable facility ashore.

Scorpio Tankers’ COO, Cameron Mackey, noted that Carbon Ridge is at the forefront of CCS technology and also understands specifically the requirements in a shipping context. “We look forward to the results of the pilot and our continuing partnership as we face the challenges of decarbonisation for shipping.”

Chase Dwyer, Carbon Ridge CEO and founder, said: “Unlike other CCS solutions, which are designed to be deployed on land and then adapted for ocean operation, we have specifically designed and developed this technology for the maritime industry. The centrifugal carbon capture system is unlike anything that has been deployed on a vessel before … Our ambition is to lead the way for CCS in shipping, and we are excited to see the results of this deployment with our partner Scorpio Tankers.”