CLdN, a leading provider of short-sea freight shipping in Northwest Europe, has announced the launch of a new pooling service designed to assist shipping companies in meeting the stringent requirements of the FuelEU Maritime directive (FEUM). This initiative will help vessel operators navigate the regulatory landscape while mitigating the financial burdens associated with the transition to renewable and low-carbon fuels.
Navigating the Challenges of FuelEU Maritime
The FuelEU Maritime directive aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector by promoting the use of alternative fuels such as biofuels, bio-LNG, and other renewable energy sources. However, these sustainable fuels come at a premium, with costs ranging between 50% and 150% higher than conventional fossil fuels.
Jasper Meireman, Head of Shipping Operations at CLdN, underscored the financial implications of non-compliance, stating:
“Biofuels are significantly more expensive and present procurement challenges for companies that do not have the ability to bunker biofuels or are irregularly sailing in EU waters. The financial penalties for not meeting the requirements of FEUM are significant. For example, a Capesize vessel sailing from South America to Rotterdam would incur penalties of approximately $50,000 if it does not bunker the required tonnage of biofuel to meet regulatory requirements.”
Pooling: A Collaborative Approach to Compliance
To address these challenges, CLdN is introducing a pooling mechanism that allows shipowners and operators to achieve compliance through partnership. Pooling enables companies to combine the emissions performance of different vessels, using the over-compliance of one vessel to offset the under-compliance of another, as long as the total pooled compliance remains positive.
This system not only helps companies avoid financial penalties but also incentivizes investment in cleaner technologies. Meireman emphasized CLdN’s ability to support this initiative:
“CLdN is one of the largest short-sea shipping operators in the EU. We own more than 30 vessels that sail up to 2.5 million nautical miles per year, primarily in EU waters. Operating on fixed and reliable routes, our vessels are equipped to use biodiesel and bio-LNG. By adjusting our fuel mix to incorporate a higher proportion of sustainable biofuels, we can assist other shipowners and operators in meeting regulatory standards while optimizing fuel costs.”
A High-Performance, Low-Emission Fleet
CLdN has consistently maintained its position as a leader in emissions efficiency. In 2023, the company’s fleet recorded a weighted average of 39g CO2/tonne-km—19% better than its closest competitor in the short-sea shipping sector. To further enhance efficiency, CLdN continues to invest in new, larger, and more fuel-efficient vessels while upgrading its existing fleet with eco-friendly technologies.
The company recently announced the addition of two hybrid RoRo ships to its fleet. The new vessels, scheduled for delivery in 2025, are being constructed at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea and will feature dual conventional main engines alongside two 6MW electric propulsion motors. In full-electric mode, these vessels can achieve cruising speeds of 16–17 knots and will allow the integration of new fuel and battery technologies. Compared to CLdN’s current largest RoRo vessels, Celine and Delphine, these new ships will further reduce GHG emissions by 40%.
By offering its pooling service, CLdN is providing a strategic solution for ship operators struggling with the rising costs of FEUM compliance. With a best-in-class fleet, ongoing investments in sustainability, and an innovative approach to regulatory challenges, CLdN is well-positioned to support the industry’s transition to cleaner marine fuels while maintaining operational efficiency.
About CLdN
CLdN is one of Europe’s leading multimodal logistics providers, composed of three vertically integrated business activities: CLdN RoRo operates more than 30 modern RoRo vessels, offering over 200 sailings per week between major ports such as Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, London, Killingholme, Liverpool, Dublin, Cork, Gothenburg, Esbjerg, Santander, and Porto. CLdN Cargo owns a fleet of 4,500 trailers and 45ft containers, offering European full-load transport, freight forwarding, and freight management services. CLdN Ports owns and operates RoRo terminals in England, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Luxembourg, CLdN employs more than 3,000 people worldwide.
Source CLdN