Skarv Shipping Solutions chooses Berg propulsion package on road to zero-emission future

Skarv Shipping Solutions has increased its order for ‘zero carbon project carriers’ from Shandong Huanghai Shipbuilding Co. Ltd to five ships, extending its commitment to a Berg Propulsion package that optimises vessel efficiency regardless of power source.



Bergen-based Skarv, a joint venture formed by Peak CSL Group and Grieg Edge to develop sustainable short-sea shipping, specified inline ammonia-ready engines for the initial four 7,000 dwt ships, with the first ship due delivery in Q4 2025, followed by three more through 2026. The fifth vessel – due delivery in the second half of 2027 - will feature DF ammonia/MGO capability.



In all cases, vessel performance will count on integrated control and propulsion technology from Berg which is future-proofed to work with a full range of alternative marine fuels and other green energy sources.



Berg collaborated closely with Skarv and ship designer LMG Marin to devise a tailor-made, adaptable propulsion solution for the 108m length vessels. The system’s efficiency has already proved itself as ahead of fuel economy and emissions expectations in extensive model tests at Norway’s independent research organisation SINTEF.

“We have worked closely with LMG Marin, Berg and Shandong Huangdai Shipbuilding to secure efficiencies in every detail of these ships,” said Jan Øivind Svardal (pictured, left), CEO, Skarv. “As well as serving shipping’s decarbonisation agenda, we are confident that these high performance and adaptable carriers will attract charters from project cargo customers who expect the most cost-efficient decarbonisation.”



Each ship will feature a single screw controllable pitch installation from Berg with a large propeller diameter and high system torque capability, optimised to match hull/power/speed - and in this case ice class - as well as thrusters. Berg’s control, power distribution and energy management system integrates main engine, battery and shore power sources to optimise vessel efficiency in all scenarios.

“The zero-carbon carrier will be far more climate-friendly than what we see in Europe’s short-sea market today, with a very low fuel consumption,” said Svardal. “It is not what we imagine is the final climate solution for shipping, but it is a giant step in the right direction.”