A funding boost has been confirmed for PONANT’s Swap2Zero project which aims to make the world’s first decarbonised ship a reality by 2030.
The INNOVFUND support, provided by the European Commission, will go towards the luxury cruise line’s efforts to develop new renewable energy solutions as it works towards ambitious decarbonisation goals.
Through this innovative project, the cruise line hopes to not only transform its own operations but also spearhead the decarbonisation of the cruise sector. To this end, it is developing a “highly replicable” design.
Its ambitions also align with the objectives of both France 2030, which targets carbon neutrality by 2050, and CORIMER’s Green Ship roadmap, which aims to accelerate the transformation and deployment of technological solutions within the maritime industry.
Deb Corbett, PONANT CEO APAC said the grant was a win for both technological advancement and the principles of responsible tourism.
“With Swap2Zero, we’re reinforcing our dedication to minimising our environmental impact while offering unparalleled experiences to our guests,” she said.
“Responsible tourism is at the core of everything we do, and this project is a key step forward in shaping a more sustainable future for the industry.”
Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.Meanwhile, PONANT General Secretary, Patrick Augier agreed that the grant sends a “very encouraging message”.
“The recognition acknowledges PONANT’s pioneering spirit,” he said. “With the Swap2Zero project we are building a showcase of French technology around the first zero emission ship in operation.”
The cruise line’s R&D and New Building teams have dedicated years of research and development to the project already, under the expert direction of Mathieu Petiteau.
Six groundbreaking decarbonisation technologies serve as the foundation of the initiative. These include: a sail power system and hull that harnesses the power of the wind; more than 1,000 square metres of photovoltaic panels; a low-temperature liquid hydrogen fuel cell for propulsion; a high-temperature fuel cell to meet the ship’s hotel requirements; on-board carbon capture technology; and an innovative bespoke energy management system.
