PONANT, a leader in maritime innovation, has made a commitment to developing a new transoceanic ship that embraces a unique design, contributing to the transition towards carbon neutrality.
PONANT's research and development team has devised an innovative concept that incorporates 6 groundbreaking technologies, reshaping the future of navigation.
Expected to be operational by 2030, this sailing ship aims to be a catalyst for new energy solutions not only for PONANT but also for the wider industry. While PONANT has once again partnered with naval architecture firm Stirling Design International, discussions are underway to select the shipyard responsible for constructing this highly advanced and revolutionary vessel.
This technological revolution places sustainability at the core of the project.
The next generation of eco-designed PONANT ships will represent a significant milestone in achieving their ambition of net-zero emissions. With approximately one hundred staterooms and an overall length of 181 meters (594 feet), PONANT's future sailing ship is paving the way for a new era in the maritime industry.
Aligned with new European and international regulations on greenhouse gas emissions, PONANT is adopting an unprecedented eco-design approach. This entails the selection of equipment and materials based on a comprehensive analysis of their life cycle, including waste recycling.
PONANT is leading a project called Swap2Zero, which has the potential for strong replicability and aims to accelerate the decarbonization of the shipbuilding industry. It strives for zero CO2 equivalent emissions during operation, achieving one month of autonomy by combining 6 major decarbonization technology building blocks:
- A sail power system and hull that provide an average of 50% of the propulsion energy using wind force.
- Over 1,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels, incorporating new generation organic solar devices that are eco-designed and integrated into the ship's structures and sails.
- A low-temperature fuel cell powered by liquid hydrogen for propulsion, with recycling of the produced water and heat.
- A high-temperature fuel cell to meet the ship's hotel load requirements, with recovery and utilization of the emitted heat to produce hot water.
- On-board carbon capture technology, coupled with the high-temperature fuel cell.
- An innovative custom energy management system to control and distribute power without the need for generators.
The Swap2Zero ship is also part of the PONANT SCIENCE program, reflecting their commitment to supporting scientists. It will host researchers involved in decarbonization technologies, which play a crucial role in the fight against global warming.