Portsmouth International Port UK has successfully conducted its first LNG bunkering operation, marking a significant step towards its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by the end of the decade.
The operation involved the 2024-built Saint-Malo ferry - the first of two new hybrid-electric ferries serving the English Channel. The vessel received LNG/liquefied natural gas from a bunkering barge operated by Titan Clean Fuels, a Dutch supplier of LNG and liquid biomethane (LBM).
LNG is widely regarded as an effective transitional fuel for reducing maritime emissions due to its efficiency, availability, and lower levels of harmful particulates compared to conventional marine fuels. While not classified as a green fuel, LNG can be blended with BioLNG derived from waste, further enhancing its sustainability.
The Saint-Malo has been introduced by French operator Brittany Ferries as the most environmentally advanced vessel to operate on the English Channel. The vessel is part of the company's broader fleet renewal initiative, which includes 5 E-Flexer-class ships commissioned from Stena RoRo. As the 4th vessel delivered under this program, Saint-Malo features the largest capacity in the fleet, with 380+ cabins, and is equipped with a 12 MWh battery-hybrid system - the most powerful of any Brittany Ferries vessel.
Designed for flexible fuel operation, Saint-Malo is capable of running on batteries, LNG, or a combination of fuels. Its multi-fuel engines can utilize LNG, biodiesel, biogas, and marine diesel (MGO). For specific operations, such as maneuvering during docking, the vessel can operate entirely on battery power. When berthed, it functions with zero emissions, reducing its environmental footprint and contributing to cleaner port operations. This aligns with Portsmouth Port’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes additional initiatives such as the introduction of a shore power system later this year. Once operational, the shore power infrastructure will allow hybrid vessels to reduce fuel consumption while in port, significantly improving local air quality.
MS Saint-Malo is scheduled to officially enter service in February, replacing the Bretagne ship, which has operated on the Portsmouth–St Malo route for 4 decades.