Alfa Laval Unveils Groundbreaking Hybrid Boilers for Sustainable Shipping Operations

Alfa Laval Unveils Groundbreaking Hybrid Boilers for Sustainable Shipping Operations

(IN BRIEF) Alfa Laval has introduced the first fuel-flexible hybrid boilers designed to support decarbonization in the maritime industry. These innovative boilers can be delivered as electric hybrid or hybrid-ready, offering shipowners flexibility in fuel use and the ability to integrate shore power to reduce emissions. The new solution, which has already secured multiple orders, helps shipowners stay ahead of evolving environmental regulations and enhance operational efficiency.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUND, 4-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Alfa Laval is leading the charge in the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts with the introduction of the world’s first fuel-flexible marine boilers, which can be delivered as either electric hybrid or hybrid-ready boilers. This innovative solution is designed to help shipowners reduce emissions, optimize fuel usage, and stay ahead of evolving green port regulations. Since their launch in early 2025, these cutting-edge boilers have generated significant interest and secured multiple orders, reflecting the maritime industry’s drive toward sustainability.

Rising Demand for Hybrid Boilers and Shore Power Infrastructure

The maritime industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards alternative fuels and reducing emissions, and both vessel and port infrastructures are evolving to support this change. Shipowners are increasingly investing in vessels equipped with hybrid boilers that offer fuel flexibility, while ports worldwide are enhancing their onshore power supply (OPS) infrastructure to help vessels cut emissions when docked.

Regulatory policies such as FuelEU Maritime, California’s At-Berth Regulation, and China’s strict OPS mandates—along with the upcoming IMO Northeast Atlantic ECA—are key drivers behind the demand for hybrid boilers. These policies are pushing the maritime sector to adopt technologies that enable vessels to meet emissions standards while at berth.

With more ports investing in OPS to reduce emissions, the transition to cleaner port operations is accelerating. Alfa Laval Aalborg marine boilers are offering shipowners a powerful solution, combining fuel flexibility with hybrid electric readiness to address both present and future needs.

“We are continually innovating to offer solutions that help our customers advance in their decarbonization journey,” said Jeppe Jacobsen, Head of Global Sales at Alfa Laval. “Our hybrid and hybrid-ready boilers combine proven performance with innovative design, giving shipowners the flexibility to adapt to new fuels, integrate shore power, reduce emissions, and meet evolving environmental regulations both at sea and in port.”

Unmatched Flexibility and Operational Efficiency

The new Aalborg hybrid boilers are designed for fuel flexibility, supporting combustion and electric operations. These boilers can run on oils, biofuels, and one additional alternative fuel—LNG, methanol, or ammonia—based on the shipowner’s preference. The hybrid-ready configuration operates solely on fuel but can easily be upgraded to include an electric connection at a later stage.

The design also enables zero-emission steam production when connected to onshore power, eliminating direct fuel costs and emissions while minimizing the load on the vessel’s auxiliary engine. This makes the system highly energy-efficient, helping port operations become more sustainable.

Advanced Technology and Future-Proof Design

The hybrid boilers utilize Alfa Laval’s deep expertise in thermal applications and fuel properties, with research and development taking place at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre in Aalborg, Denmark. The boilers are designed to deliver full steam output while using alternative fuels, maintaining performance comparable to conventional fuels.

The electrical component of the boiler is integrated into the design and sized according to the required steam capacity. The system’s incremental steps ensure efficient and flexible steam generation, and the internal design has been adjusted to accommodate the electrical integration without affecting the boiler’s overall performance.

Since retrofitting isn’t an option, the boilers must be delivered as hybrid or hybrid-ready from the outset to enable future electric operation, giving shipowners the flexibility to adapt to future fuel requirements and environmental regulations.

“Shipowners are embracing this concept. Since the launch of the hybrid-ready solution in early 2025, we have received numerous orders,” said Jacobsen. “The flexibility of our boiler platform gives shipowners long-term confidence, as they know they are prepared for stricter regulations and evolving fuel availability.”

For more information on Alfa Laval’s electric hybrid and hybrid-ready boiler solutions, visit: Alfa Laval Marine Boilers

To learn more about Alfa Laval’s sustainable shipping technologies, visit: Alfa Laval Marine

Editor’s notes

This is Alfa Laval 

The ability to make the most of what we have is more important than ever. Together with our customers, we’re innovating the industries that society depends on and creating lasting positive impact. We’re set on helping billions of people to get the energy, food, and clean water they need.  And, at the same time, we’re decarbonizing the marine fleet that’s the backbone of global trade.

We pioneer technologies and solutions that free our customers to unlock the true potential of resources. As our customers’ businesses grow stronger, the goal of a truly sustainable world edges closer. The company is committed to optimizing processes, creating responsible growth, and driving progress to support customers in achieving their business goals and sustainability targets. Together, we’re pioneering positive impact.

Alfa Laval was founded 140 years ago, has customers in 100 countries, employs more than 22,300 people, and annual sales were SEK 66.6 billion (5.8 BEUR) in 2024. The company is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

www.alfalaval.com

Media Contacts:

Jeppe Jacobsen
Head of Global Sales, BU HGS
Alfa Laval Marine Division
Phone : +45 26 799 576
E-mail: jeppe.jacobsen@alfalaval.com

Helena Sannicolo
Vice President Marketing Communications
Alfa Laval Marine Division
Phone: +46 70 569 3806
E-mail: helena.sannicolo@alfalaval.com

SOURCE Alfa Laval