Technology group Wärtsilä has launched its next-generation 46TS engine[1], designed to balance renewable energy sources and enhance power plant performance. The 46TS large-bore engine evolved from the successful Wärtsilä 50 engine platform, which has delivered over 55 million running hours worldwide since 2008.
The 46TS engine is built to provide highly efficient baseload power and can run on sustainable fuels when they become available. This innovation is part of Wärtsilä’s commitment to supporting the energy transition by offering flexible, highly efficient engines that complement intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar power.
Anders Lindberg, President of Wärtsilä Energy, emphasized the importance of balancing power in achieving a net-zero energy system. “The energy transition cannot be achieved by renewable power alone – we need flexible, highly efficient engines to support wind and solar power during times of low generation,” he said.
The 46TS engine boasts several benefits for power producers, including improved efficiency and performance with over 51% engine efficiency, which saves fuel and reduces emissions. It generates 23.4 MW per unit, requiring fewer engines for large plant sizes, and offers greater flexibility with rapid response to power fluctuations and faster ramp-up times.
Wärtsilä’s latest innovation also features fast and cost-efficient modular plant installation, bringing significant savings in total installed cost. The company provides tailored high-quality services to maximize reliability and profitability, including lifecycle services with optimized operations and guaranteed performance.
The 46T Sengine is expected to be available from 2025, with the first order already placed by Kazakhstan Caspian Offshore Industries (KCOI) for their new 120 MW power plant. This project will integrate the engine power plant with wind and solar energy, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future.
Sources:
[1] Wärtsilä introduces next-generation engine to balance renewables and improve power plant performance. https://www.wartsila.com/media/news/10-02-2025-wartsila-introduces-next-generation-engine-to-balance-renewables-and-improve-power-plant-performance-3547250\