A Holland America Line ship will operate one of its four engines using low carbon intensity oil derived from organic waste or residues while sailing within the environmentally sensitive Norwegian fjords.
The biofuel will yield an estimated 86% reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions during the start of a long-term test on its flagship, Rotterdam, according to the company.
The initial tests are taking place during cruises this month, with the potential to expand to multiple engines during the summer while operating specifically in Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord.
HAL is one of the first Carnival Corporation brands to run a long-term 100% biofuel shipboard operation, having completed a successful first test in August 2022.
German sister brand Aida also tested biofuels on board the ship Aidaprima in Rotterdam two years ago.
These are claimed to be among the first live tests on working cruise ships, although biofuels have been trialled on large diesel engines at shoreside research facilities and in other shipping segments.
Biofuels derived from feedstocks that are certified as 100% organic waste or residue, are said to offer no risk of land-use change or deforestation and no competition with food production.
Produced from waste fats, oils, and grease leftover from feedstock processing, biofuels are associated with minimal emissions during production. This results in low carbon intensity, with an estimated reduction of 86% in emissions compared to marine gas oil.
HAL’s existing ships operate on biofuels without modifications to the engine or fuel structure. The line continues to partner with companies to find ways to reduce emissions and develop alternative fuels and technologies.
The biofuel using in this month’s trial was provided at the port of Rotterdam by specialist supplier FincoEnergies
Norwegian Maritime Authority acting director general of shipping and navigation, Alf Tore, said: “There is a need to look at all good alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the future and we see biofuels as one of the alternatives that, with the right use and origin, will contribute to emission reductions, which we welcome.
“The Norwegian Maritime Authority takes a positive view of all measures taken by the industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
HAL president Gus Antorcha said: “Holland America Line is committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and we are excited to demonstrate a next-generation fuel source that can help us toward our pursuit of net zero emissions.
“Converting items such as food waste into fuel is an innovative way to meet environmental challenges and we thank the Dutch government for its support.”
FincoEnergies international marine commercial director Johannes Schurmann added: “Together with our clients, we optimise sustainability and cost of the biofuel, while not jeopardising the performance in the engine and fuel system.”