Cepsa, a prominent supplier of maritime energy in Spain, has achieved a significant milestone with its first direct supply of second-generation biofuels for the cruise industry at the Port of Barcelona. This pioneering effort marks a crucial step in the company’s commitment to advancing the energy transition within the maritime sector.
The biofuel supplied contains a notable 24% sustainable component, which is projected to prevent the emission of approximately 3,000 tons of CO2. This reduction in carbon emissions is equivalent to the environmental benefit of planting around 200,000 trees. The biofuel, produced from used cooking oils, supports the circular economy by repurposing waste into valuable energy sources.
In late July, the Norwegian Escape, a 1,069-foot passenger vessel operated by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), received the initial biofuel supply. This vessel will continue to utilize biofuels throughout the EU cruise season. Following this, Cepsa extended its biofuel supply to two additional NCLH-operated vessels: the 734-foot Seven Seas Voyager and the 785-foot Oceania Riviera, both of which received their supplies in early August.
This development further establishes Cepsa as a key player in the maritime energy transition, underlining its role as a leader in supplying sustainable energy solutions for maritime transport. The company is well-positioned to provide these eco-friendly fuels on a regular basis at the Spanish ports of Barcelona and Algeciras.
Samir Fernández, Director of Marine Fuel Solutions at Cepsa, expressed enthusiasm about this advancement, stating “We are delighted that second-generation biofuels are now being harnessed by the cruise industry as they embark on their decarbonization journey. Marine fuels can be used in ships without the need for modifications to their engines, and they have a high potential for reducing CO2 emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels, achieving a reduction of up to 90% throughout their life cycle, which makes them an ideal immediate solution.”
This initiative aligns with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) objectives to ensure sufficient access to low-carbon fuels as the sector aims for net-zero carbon cruising by 2050. According to CLIA’s latest State of the Cruise Industry Report, over 31 million people globally chose to cruise in 2023, with more than 8 million in Europe alone. As the sector rebounds post-COVID, rapid and meaningful decarbonization is essential. The International Energy Agency highlights that oil-based fuels historically met over 99% of international shipping’s energy demand. To achieve net zero, the adoption of alternative fuels, including biofuels, hydrogen, ammonia, and electricity, will be critical.
Biofuels play a crucial role in helping shipping companies meet the European Union and International Maritime Organization (IMO) objectives. The European Commission’s Fit for 55 package includes the “Fuel EU Maritime” legislative initiative, targeting a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions intensity in maritime transport by 2% in 2025, 6% in 2030, and 80% by 2050 compared to 2020 levels through sustainable fuels. Simultaneously, the IMO has set ambitious targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transportation, aiming for a 20% reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050 compared to 2008 levels.
Cepsa’s diversified portfolio supports the decarbonization of maritime transport, encompassing not only biofuels but also products like liquefied natural gas (LNG). The company is also preparing to supply synthetic marine fuels, such as green ammonia or methanol, which will be produced at the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley in southern Spain—one of Europe’s largest green hydrogen projects.
This initiative reinforces Cepsa’s commitment to second-generation biofuels as a pivotal element in advancing maritime decarbonization. Through its “Positive Motion” 2030 strategy, Cepsa aims to lead sustainable mobility and decarbonize heavy transport sectors (air, maritime, and land) through green molecules. The company aspires to become Spain and Portugal’s leading biofuel producer by 2030, with an annual production capacity of 2.5 million tons, and to produce green hydrogen equivalent to 2 GW annually.
Cepsa in Brief
Cepsa is a leading international energy company with a robust commitment to sustainable mobility and energy, supported by over 90 years of technical expertise. The company excels in the global Chemicals sector, holding world-leading positions, and is guided by a progressive green plan.
In 2022, Cepsa unveiled its new 2030 strategy, “Positive Motion,” which outlines its ambition to lead in sustainable mobility, biofuels, and green hydrogen within Spain and Portugal. This strategy positions Cepsa as a key benchmark in the Energy Transition. Central to Cepsa’s mission is a customer-focused approach, working collaboratively to support and achieve their decarbonization goals.
Cepsa’s operations are driven by ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, with a goal to become Net Positive. The company aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 55% and Scope 3 emissions by 15-20% by 2030, with a target of achieving net zero emissions across all scopes by 2050.
Source Cepsa Marine Fuel Solutions