Ponant is paving the way to zero carbon navigation with its new-build transoceanic ship, which it says will be completed by 2030.
The Swap2Zero programme plans a ship with around 100 staterooms, which aims to be a catalyst for new energy solutions for the cruising industry. The vessel’s design is in line with new European and international regulations on greenhouse gas emissions.
“By 2030, our future ship aims to have zero greenhouse gas emissions when sailing, manoeuvring, in port or at anchor. Her carbon footprint will be reduced throughout her life cycle. Renewable energy supplied by the wind and sun will be combined with low- carbon non-fossil energy associated with fuel cells,” says Hervé Gastinel, Ponant CEO.
The Swap2Zero concept combines six technologies:
1.Sail power system and hull providing an average of 50% of the propulsion energy using wind power.
2.Surface area of over 1 000sqm of photovoltaic panels including new-generation organic, solar eco-designed devices integrated into structures and sails.
3.Low-temperature fuel cell operating on liquid hydrogen for propulsion with the water and heat produced being recycled.
4.High-temperature fuel cell to meet the ship’s hotel load requirements with emitted heat being recovered and used to produce hot water.
5.On-board carbon capture technology coupled with the high temperature fuel cell.
6.Innovative bespoke energy management system to control and distribute power without generators.
Ponant is represented in South Africa by Development Promotions.
