Wallenius Wilhelmsen Finalizes Deal for Up to 12 New Vessels Engineered for Methanol and Ammonia Compatibility

Oslo-listed Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessel operator Wallenius Wilhelmsen ASA has taken a significant step towards enhancing its fleet and sustainability goals by entering into a letter of intent for the acquisition of four cutting-edge vessels. These vessels, with a capacity of 9,350 car equivalent units (CEUs), are designed to be capable of utilizing methanol and are also prepared for future compatibility with ammonia. In addition to these four vessels, Wallenius Wilhelmsen has secured options for an additional eight car carriers.

The envisioned vessels, slated for delivery from mid-2026 onwards, will be constructed at China's Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu). These vessels will collectively belong to a new vessel class, christened 'The Shaper Class,' symbolizing the company's transformative efforts. Wallenius Wilhelmsen's investments align with its commitment to achieving a net-zero emission-driven end-to-end service by 2027.

Xavier Leroi, EVP & COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, emphasized the company's intention to be a preferred shipping partner for customers by embracing sustainability. He noted, "We believe that methanol is the fastest way to net-zero emission, and the ordered vessels can upon delivery use alternative fuel sources such as methanol. The ships will also be equipped for ammonia use and can be easily converted when environment-friendly green ammonia is accessible in a safe and reliable manner.

Highlighting the industry's imperative for swift change, Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO and President of Wallenius Wilhelmsen, emphasized the company's commitment to spearheading transformation within the sector. He expressed, "As an organization, our resolute objective is to mold this industry and pave the path for adeptly leveraging evolving conditions. We are dedicated to advancing alongside customers and partners who join us on this transformative journey."

The strategic fleet size of 125-135 vessels is central to Wallenius Wilhelmsen's growth strategy and its mission to attain net-zero emissions.

Leroi highlighted the company's commitment to providing superior services with an environmentally friendly fleet and collaborative efforts with customers to reduce emissions. He acknowledged the transition to greener fuels as a necessary step and pledged to work together with customers to make these alternatives available.

Beyond vessel acquisitions, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is pioneering sustainable propulsion methods. The "Orcelle Wind" project envisions a 7,000 CEU RoRo vessel that will utilize wind power as its primary source of propulsion. Set to sail by 2027, the "Orcelle Wind" represents the company's dedication to innovative solutions to reduce emissions. This project has garnered support, including 9 million Euros (USD 9,815,448) in funding from the EU, reflecting broader recognition of its potential impact.

In a parallel development, Wallenius Wilhelmsen has engaged financial institutions including Danske Bank, DNB Markets, Nordea, and Sparebank 1 Markets as joint lead managers to facilitate investor engagements for a potential sustainability-linked bond issuance. This initiative aligns with the company's ongoing commitment to responsible financial practices and its corporate objectives. Notably, the company's Q2 performance highlights a robust financial stance, with USD 477 million in Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) and USD 396 million in operating cash flow. These results underscore Wallenius Wilhelmsen's resilience and strategic direction in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.