Ponant’s Swap2Zero Vessel: Revolutionizing Sustainability with Fuel Cells and Carbon Capture

Ponant has announced an innovative project for its upcoming Swap2Zero cruise vessel, expected to launch in 2030. This initiative, developed in collaboration with GTT and Bloom Energy, aims to create a new energy system that integrates Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) powered by LNG with Marine Carbon Capture (MCC) technology.

This system will not only address the energy demands of the vessel but also help in reducing its carbon footprint. The design features a wind-assisted propulsion system alongside the fuel cells, promoting sustainability in maritime operations.

Mathieu Petiteau, the newbuilding and R&D director of Ponant, emphasized the significance of the partnership as a step towards decarbonizing the maritime industry. He noted that the project is co-funded by the European Union Innovation Fund and France 2030, highlighting the importance of advancing environmental technologies in sea transport.

As part of the project, GTT will develop a compatible Marine Carbon Capture system that will work in tandem with Bloom Energy’s SOFC. This integrated approach will provide auxiliary power for vessel operations, such as lighting and hot water, while efficiently capturing CO₂ from the engine emissions.

Philippe Berterottière, chairman and CEO of GTT, expressed that the collaboration showcases a commitment to creating the sustainable ships of the future and contributing to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) goals for reducing emissions in maritime transport.

Bloom Energy’s chief commercial officer, Aman Joshi, remarked on the essential role solid oxide fuel cells play in shaping a low-carbon future for the maritime industry and stressed that the integration of fuel cells with onboard carbon capture reflects a forward-thinking approach to cleaner shipping.

This ambitious initiative marks a vital progression towards developing next-generation vessels with reduced environmental impact, showcasing how collaborative innovation can lead to more sustainable operations within the maritime sector.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.

Editorial Team

At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.

Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.

Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.