HAL is testing renewable fuels aboard Rotterdam
Holland America Line recently announced the start of a long-term biofuel test on its flagship, Rotterdam, leveraging 100 per cent low carbon intensity biofuel while sailing within the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords.
The ship bunkered the biofuel before leaving the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, April 27, 2024, and will operate one of its four engines using low carbon intensity oil derived from organic waste or residues and certified according to the EU Renewable Energy Directive while in the Fjords. The GoodFuels MR1-100 sustainable biofuel supplied by FincoEnergies will yield an estimated 86 per cent reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions.
“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,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “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.”
The initial tests will occur on one of the ship’s four engines during cruises this month, with the potential to expand to multiple engines during the summer while operating in the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords, specifically Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.
What are biofuels?
Biofuels are derived from feedstocks that are certified as 100% organic waste or residue, with 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 a very low carbon intensity, with an estimated reduction of 86% in emissions compared to marine gas oil (MGO).
Holland America Line’s existing ships operate on biofuels without modifications to the engine or fuel structure. Holland America Line continues to partner with companies to find ways to reduce emissions and develop alternative fuels and technologies.
Holland America Line 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. The two cruise lines’ biofuel tests support the overall environmental mission, goals and aspirations of Carnival Corporation.
