ERMA FIRST GROUP has acquired Ecochlor, with the aim of expanding its portfolio of ballast water treatment systems (BWTS) and decarbonisation solutions.
As informed, Ecochlor’s BWTS uses a filtration and chlorine dioxide (ClO2) process, offering an efficient, low-power solution for ballast water treatment. The EcoBlue solution, which is the only chemical approved for use under both IMO and USCG Type Approval Certificates, ensures compliance with international discharge standards.
A crucial part of our success has been our continuous investment in providing the best BWTS solutions, both through organic growth and acquisitions such as this, while simultaneously supporting customers before, during and after installation.
… said Eleni Polychronopoulou, President, ERMA FIRST GROUP.
Ecochlor’s BWTS portfolio comprises a filtration- and ClO2-based system and two versions of the EcoOne™ solution. The first is a filterless system that uses ClO2 alone and consumes just 10–20 kilowatts of power even at very-high flow rates. The second hybrid system deploys either a two-step filtration and ClO2 process or filterless ClO2-based operations only, depending on shipowner requirements.
According to ERMA FIRST, apart from ensuring compliance, EcoBlue secures safe operation of the BWTS in accordance with the maker’s operational manual and the BWTS warranty remains valid.
By combining the portfolios and service capabilities of ERMA FIRST GROUP and Ecochlor, the acquisition extends our reach as a future-proof partner equipped to help shipping meet its environmental obligations
… commented Konstantinos Stampedakis, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ERMA FIRST GROUP, echoing the vision he had expressed to SAFETY4SEA at the 2024 Posidonia exhibition by stating that technology providers must collaborate now to design, develop, manufacture, and implement solutions that will make shipping greener.
The acquisition looks to strengthen ERMA FIRST’s position in the industry and broadens its ability to provide sustainable solutions for the shipping sector, helping reduce fuel consumption and emission.
