In its ongoing commitment to advancing decarbonization efforts within the maritime sector, PONANT has announced a partnership with Nantes-based startup Farwind Energy to explore innovative solutions for ship refueling using renewable hydrogen.
Under this collaboration, PONANT and Farwind Energy have outlined a roadmap to develop renewable marine hydrogen production and utilization. They will work together to address challenges related to hydrogen management onboard ships and collaborate on the implementation of initial use cases, aiming to overcome potential technological hurdles. Both partners have set a target to launch PONANT's Swap2Zero project and Farwind's inaugural energy vessel by 2030.
Farwind Energy, headquartered in Nantes and the Caribbean, specializes in developing advanced solutions for supplying renewable energy close to its consumption point, tailored to specific requirements. Their energy vessel technology focuses on generating electricity at sea from offshore wind and converting it into hydrogen through seawater electrolysis. This hydrogen can then be transported ashore for various applications, particularly suitable for island territories, or utilized for in-sea ship refueling, thereby facilitating the maritime industry's transition to cleaner energy sources.
PONANT's Swap2Zero project, slated for completion by 2030, represents one of the maritime sector's most ambitious research and development endeavors. The project envisions a transoceanic vessel striving for carbon neutrality in all operational aspects, including sailing, maneuvering, port operations, and anchorage. The initiative explores multiple avenues, including wind power integration and the utilization of low-temperature fuel cells powered by liquid hydrogen for propulsion. With a focus on fostering innovative energy solutions, Swap2Zero aims to serve as a catalyst for industry-wide adoption of sustainable practices.