Retrofits - Adding an in-line shaft generator on the propeller shaftline

Retrofit solutions

WE Tech Variable Speed Shaft Generator System Retrofit Solution

Upgrade your vessel’s performance and sustainability with WE Tech’s proven Variable Speed Shaft Generator as a Retrofit Solution. By utilizing the main engine to produce electrical power, this innovative system transforms how ships manage onboard energy. The retrofit not only cuts fuel consumption and emissions but also reduces noise, vibration, and maintenance costs by minimizing reliance on auxiliary generators.

Whether your goal is to comply with IMO efficiency standards, extend vessel life, or achieve significant operational savings, WE Tech’s retrofit technology delivers a smart, future-proof path toward greener, more efficient shipping.

Ready for your retrofit project? Get in touch.

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Meet the tightening regulation demands with cost-efficiency, smarter power and a greener fleet

Installing an in-line shaft generator directly on the propeller shaftline enables vessels to harness the main engine’s mechanical power to generate electricity. Our retrofit solution eliminates the need for traditional auxiliary engines during sea operations, reducing energy waste and improving overall vessel efficiency. By integrating this advanced shaft generator technology, shipowners can modernize existing fleets for higher performance, lower emissions, and compliance with IMO energy efficiency standards.

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WE Tech Retrofit Solution brochure - project steps

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Reducing noise and vibrations onboard the ship

A Quieter, More
Comfortable Vessel

Eliminating or minimizing the use of auxiliary generators not only cuts emissions but also reduces onboard noise and vibration levels. The result is a quieter, more comfortable environment for crew and passengers. This improvement in acoustic comfort enhances onboard living conditions and supports a more sustainable, human-centered vessel design—key factors in modern ship retrofits and operational excellence.

Creating savings through better efficiency

Maximum Efficiency,
Minimum Costs

The Variable Speed Shaft Generator System enhances vessel efficiency by matching electrical production precisely to onboard demand. This minimizes fuel waste and optimizes energy use in every operating condition. Shipowners benefit from reduced fuel bills, improved Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) ratings, and faster return on investment. The result is a smarter, leaner energy system that pays off both economically and environmentally.

Reducing overall fuel consumption and emissions

Cut Fuel,
Cut Emissions

By generating electricity with the main propulsion engine instead of auxiliary generators, the retrofit system reduces total fuel consumption significantly. Lower fuel burn directly translates into lower greenhouse gas and NOx emissions, helping operators meet global decarbonization targets. The technology supports compliance with IMO 2023 regulations and contributes to more sustainable shipping operations worldwide.

Project timeline

Retrofitting steps

Our retrofit process guides shipowners from early opportunity assessment to a fully commissioned energy-efficient solution. From initial screening and onboard inspections to engineering, procurement, installation, and final hand-over, WE Tech ensures a seamless, reliable upgrade tailored to each vessel.

WE Tech aims to deliver standard solutions, as close as possible to new building installations. In order to overcome any challenges which are outside of our core expertise, we utilize our network of professional partners.

Identifying Potential ship/ ships

  • Make operational profile analysis
  • Review technical compatibility
  • Evaluate fuel and emissions impact

WE Tech initial screening

  • Identify and select realistic projects to work on
  • Identify the way of working
  • Identify needs and what kind of equipment we are dealing with

Onboard inspection

  • Perform onboard inspection to check if the initial screening is matchin the actual ship
  • The service is to be done by external partner
  • Identify needs and what kind of equipment we are dealing with

Engineering and design

  • Engineering and design of the proposed solution by external company
  • Detailled drawings, planning and classification society approvals is to be checked and reviewed

Offering of a solution

  • Based on the design, engineering and approvals a solution can be offered in detail with support from partners which WE Tech have engaded with for the project

Contract

  • Finalizing finacial terms, risks and also share of each companies repsonsibilities and obligations

Procurement and delivery

  • Delivery phase and alignment of all the needed work
  • Main contractor of the conversion projects is to handle this part

Installation & comisisoning

  • Done by the shipyard or contractor, whichever selected for the projects

Hand-over and warranty

  • Successful delivery of the project and WE Tech to be responsible for the warranty of the delivered scope of supply

Comply with regulations

As the maritime regulations are tightening, we are happy to inform you that we provide top quality energy efficiency solutions for retrofits!

The WE Tech Variable Speed Shaft Generator System maximizes energy efficiency by producing electrical power directly from the main engine. This optimization ensures seamless power distribution across onboard systems while reducing reliance on auxiliary generators. Through advanced energy management controls, vessels achieve balanced power loads, stable operation, and significantly improved fuel economy—essential for both environmental performance and operational savings.

Regulatory compliance

We equip your ship for success

Why partner with WE TECH

We, together with our experienced partners, will help you with sizing, design, calculations, planning, installation, and aftermarket

  • Successful delivery of the project and WE Tech to be responsible for the warranty of the delivered scope of supply
  • WE are a market leader with global presence
  • WE deliver robust and proven technologies together with selected partners
  • WE offer tailormade lifecycle services
  • WE are leading the transition towards a sustainable future in shipping

Book Your Meeting

Contact us today to tailor a solution for your vessel.

Contact us

What’s holding your
vessel back?

Tell us your story and let’s begin.

Whether you’re seeking fuel savings, power stability, or a future-ready retrofit plan, our team is here to listen. Let’s find the right solution for your ship — together.

Get in touch

Book Your Meeting

Contact us today to tailor a solution for your vessel.

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