Year 2025 was a defining year for the WISE (Wide and Intelligent Sustainable Energy) ecosystem. Through bold projects, events and strategic collaborations, WISE continued to shape the future of energy.
Driving the energy transition with new projects
In 2025, WISE launched new projects with the goal of improving reliability and sustainability of energy. Early Detection of Extreme Engine Events (EDE3) is a new research initiative aiming to enhance engine safety and reliability through advanced predictive technologies. Better Bearing, Seal and Vibration Technology (BEST), on the other hand, is a recently launched project focusing on improving efficiency and durability of machinery used in energy production and marine propulsion.
Another significant milestone of 2025 was the launch of a world-first clean energy trial using ethanol, a biofuel mainly produced from sugarcane, in partnership with Brazilian energy company Energetica Suape II S.A. This project includes extensive testing of the Wärtsilä 32M engine and could demonstrate ethanol’s potential as a clean power source.
Enhancing reliability through simulation
WISE also contributed to the Grid Code Certification by Simulation (GCCS) project which develops hardware-in-loop simulation to ensure that power systems meet grid code requirements. This project represents a step towards more modern certification processes while also enhancing safety and reliability of power systems.
Leveraging data and AI for predictive maintenance
Within the WISE ecosystem, Wärtsilä collaborated with Finnish data and artificial intelligence company Emblica to explore audio data analysis for predictive maintenance. Using advanced AI and machine learning techniques, signs of early malfunction could be detected from sound patterns emitted by machinery. Thus, the collaboration aims to reduce downtime, improve operational efficiency and extend the life cycle of engines.
Fostering collaboration and innovation
WISE strengthened its ecosystem through active engagement and knowledge sharing. Three webinars brought together ecosystem members and experts who shared insights on autonomous technologies, data-driven solutions, and clean energy innovations. The ecosystem’s impact even reached a global stage as WISE’s innovations were showcased at Smart Cities Day during Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
Events sparked fresh ideas and innovative solutions. At the JunctionXVaasa 2025 hackathon, teams collaborated to design tools for sustainability reporting, generating creative approaches to support a net-zero future. The WISE Annual Event at Maria 01 further strengthened collaboration, offering inspiring keynotes and interactive workshops where participants explored new opportunities for joint projects.
Wärtsilä recognised as a leader in startup collaboration
Wärtsilä was recognised as a leading corporate in the Startup Collaboration Index by the Venture Acceleration Alliance, highlighting the company’s strong track record in working with startups and external partners to scale new technologies. The award highlights a shared understanding within the WISE ecosystem that a netzero energy future can only be achieved through strong collaboration across the energy value chain.
Looking ahead to 2026
“In 2026, WISE will focus on advancing existing initiatives, launching new projects and creating opportunities for collaboration across the energy ecosystem through events and joint activities” says Eleonor Hedström, WISE Ecosystem Lead and Director at Next Business Lab, Wärtsilä Energy.
Building on the momentum of 2025, WISE invites companies, research institutions and innovators to join its mission of accelerating innovation towards a fully decarbonised energy future. Let’s drive the energy transition together!