Le Champlain, an expedition yacht from the PONANT Explorers series, is to run on B100 (UCOME) biofuel produced from recycled cooking oil. Carried out with ALTENS, the trial is the first in France and underlines PONANT’s commitment to reducing its CO2 emissions by 30% per navigation day by 2030.
“This first marine biofuel test is part of our roadmap as their carbon footprint is infinitely lower than conventional fuels, with a 90% reduction of CO2 emissions. They are produced from used cooking oils, can be incorporated directly into engines and are available now. We want to help demonstrate that it is a credible alternative that can contribute to decarbonising PONANT’s fleet and the entire maritime industry. These tests will help fine tune technical parameters and the different emissions and composition of gas associated with using this type of biofuel,” explains Mathieu Petiteau, Newbuilding and R&D Director at PONANT.
Le Champlain first to test this new fuel type in France
The B100 Le Champlain is bunkering is produced in France from cooking oils collected in France. It is distributed by ALTENS, a leading French supplier of alternative non-fossil fuels for the transport sector. As the first French cruise line to test this new generation of biofuels, PONANT continues to progress its sustainability and decarbonisation strategy. In compliance with legislation, the first bunkering will be accompanied by a series of tests to ensure in particular that NOx emissions remain compliant with regulatory specifications. SOx, particulates and black carbon emissions will also be measured. Once this trial stage has been completed, PONANT plans to roll out its use to the rest of its fleet, subject to supply capacities.
A certified performance marine biofuel
During a technical stop in Cherbourg, Le Champlain will take on biodiesel B100 (UCOME) which is 100% produced from cooking oils collected from the food industry, catering outlets and catering trades in France.
Le Champlain is fitted with Wartsila diesel engines and B100 is totally compatible as a drop-in fuel to meet targets. With CO2 emissions 90% lower than fossil fuels, it exceeds European requirements for 2035. The whole B100 biofuel production sector is certified by ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification), an international standard recognised by the European Union and which also guarantees traceability of raw materials.
