Costa Group, the leading cruise operator in Europe with its two brands Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the methanol producer Proman, to further implement methanol as a marine fuel for the cruise industry.
The collaboration aims to accelerate the energy transition and decarburization of the existing fleet by enhancing the supply of sustainable methanol, retrofitting the existing vessels to operate on clean fuel, and investment in further methanol-fueled new builds. Due to its ease of handling, methanol is increasingly being recognized as a top alternative fuel for meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets, making it an appealing option for newly constructed ships and retrofitting existing vessels.
"The technology to retrofit a vessel to accept methanol as a fuel is available today. Our methanol products can facilitate the transition to low-carbon intensity fuels. Methanol-powered vessels have a proven track record of reducing and eliminating major greenhouse gas emissions, delivering immediate air quality improvements around major ports and shipping lanes. We are excited to bring our expertise along the full methanol value chain to help deliver on Costa Group's bold ambitions" - said Tim Cornelius, Proman's Managing Director of Corporate Development.
Costa Group has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable innovation in the global cruise industry. The company has consistently introduced advanced technologies on both its new and existing ships. Costa Group was the first to pioneer the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion to reduce emissions. Currently, the company has four ships in service that utilize this technology. In addition, most of Costa Group's ships are equipped with shore power capabilities, allowing them to operate with zero emissions in ports with the necessary technology. The company has also tested biofuels, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable energy sources. Through partnerships like the one formed with Proman, Costa Group has shown that the transition to more environmentally friendly fuels in the marine industry is achievable through strong industry collaboration and a shared vision for a sustainable future.
"We are reducing the carbon footprint of our fleet while at port and at sea, investing in advanced environmental technologies and partnering with companies such as Proman who share a passion for sustainable energy transition. By enabling cruise ships to use methanol as a propulsion fuel, Costa follows the ambition to take the next big step towards GHG neutral operations of our fleet by 2050" - said Dr. Christoph Schladoer, VP Decarbonisation Costa Group.
