Navigator Gas Returns to PrimeServ for New Ethane Retrofits

Everllence's after-sales division has entered into an agreement with Navigator Gas, a liquefied-gas shipping company, to convert two of their vessels to ethane-running. This contract is based on the eight years of service experience gained by Navigator Gas's 'Navigator Aurora' vessel, which underwent a similar conversion in 2018 by Everllence.

The two vessels - 'Navigator Nova' and 'Navigator Prominence' - are currently equipped with Everllence B&W 6S50ME-GI Mk8.2 engines. Under the project, these ships will be converted to ME-GIE (-Gas Injection Ethane) units under IMO Tier II compliance. The retrofitting work will be carried out by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industries at their Nantong yard in China.

The first conversion is set to begin in March 2027, with Everllence PrimeServ responsible for executing the engine retrofit. Kaj Pilemand, Director of Vessel Operations at Navigator Gas, expressed confidence in the ME-GIE solution, stating that this conversion is a natural next step, building on proven technology and operational experience.

Navigator Gas believes that transitioning to zero-carbon shipping requires both decarbonizing the existing fleet and preparing for future fleets. They see the conversion as a way to reduce CO₂ emissions immediately, extend the relevance of existing vessels, and make significant progress towards their decarbonization goals. At the same time, Navigator Gas is preparing their future fleet for lower and ultimately zero-carbon fuels.

Michael Petersen, Senior Vice President and Head of PrimeServ Denmark at Everllence, welcomed Navigator Gas's decision to return for two additional engine upgrades. He praised Everllence's expertise in providing fuel flexibility to customers and emphasized that the project represents a strategic step towards enabling alternative-fuel operation in the ethane carrier segment.

The project aims to deliver an efficient and scalable conversion solution, showcasing the versatility of the Everllence B&W ME-GI engine in facilitating maximum fuel flexibility and supporting shipowners' changing operational needs.