Ponant liner runs on UCO as part of trial

Ponant’s liner Le Champlain is to run on biofuel produced from recycled cooking oil.
The landmark sustainable marine fuel trial is being carried out with supplier Altens and is the first of its kind in France.
The ship has took on biodiesel B100 which is 100% produced from recycled cooking oil, during a technical stop in Cherbourg in September.
The first bunkering will be accompanied by a series of tests to ensure that NOx emissions remain compliant.
“This first marine biofuel test is part of our roadmap as their carbon footprint is infinitely lower than conventional fuels,” said Mathieu Petiteau, R&D director.
“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 to decarbonising for the entire maritime industry.”
Le Champlain is fitted with Wartsila diesel engines and B100 is compatible as a drop-in fuel.
Its CO2 emissions are 90% lower than fossil fuels, and it exceeds European requirements for 2035.