ENI – In a significant step toward achieving a sustainable future for the maritime industry, Eni, a leading integrated energy company, and MSC Group, a global leader in transport and cruise services, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on decarbonization and sustainability initiatives. The agreement was formalized by Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi and MSC Group President Diego Aponte, underscoring the commitment of both organizations to the energy transition and environmental stewardship.
Expanding sustainable operations
The partnership aims to extend the scope of the longstanding business relationship between Eni and MSC into broader geographic regions and innovative sustainability practices. Central to this collaboration is the adoption of lower-carbon fuels and renewable solutions for MSC’s diverse fleet, spanning logistics and cruise transport.
Eni will explore the provision of:
- LNG: A cleaner-burning alternative to traditional marine fuels.
- HVO and bio-LNG: Advanced biofuels produced from renewable sources, offering significant carbon reduction benefits.
- Marine lubricants from renewable raw materials: These will enhance the operational efficiency of MSC’s vessels while reducing environmental impact.
The agreement also includes the evaluation of renewable energy solutions for MSC’s facilities, as well as innovative logistics and intermodal transport systems to streamline the supply chain for sustainable fuels, including HVO biofuels.
Circular economy and waste management
The MoU outlines strategies to implement circular economy practices within MSC’s operations. This includes the onboard use of plastics derived from recycled or renewable materials, waste collection and management, and exploring the redevelopment of decommissioned Eni assets for sustainable purposes.
Research and development initiatives
Eni and MSC will pursue joint R&D efforts, focusing on innovative decarbonization technologies and processes. These initiatives will be integrated into Open-es, Eni’s sustainability platform that fosters collaboration across the value chain.
Additional areas of collaboration include supporting the decommissioning of offshore platforms and leveraging agro-industrial activities to produce biorefinery feedstocks, further advancing the energy transition in maritime operations.
Claudio Descalzi, CEO of Eni, emphasized the necessity of collective action “There are many parts of our economic and industrial systems where we must act to reduce emissions. The only way to succeed is by uniting the skills, resources, and technologies across a range of stakeholders, for widespread intervention. This agreement marks the start of our collaboration with MSC in the decarbonization of transport and cruise services. Together, we will contribute significantly to reducing emissions in the maritime sector.”
Diego Aponte, President of MSC Group, expressed confidence in the partnership “At MSC, we are focused on achieving a successful energy transition and need partners we can trust. Eni has been one of these partners for many years, and this MoU is a natural evolution of our relationship. We look forward to deepening our sustainability and decarbonization efforts with Eni across the MSC Group of companies.”
This partnership marks a transformative step for both Eni and MSC, reinforcing their shared vision of a greener future for maritime transport.
Fabio Ferrara, Head of Marine Fuels at EniLive, highlighted the operational scope of the agreement “I’m thrilled to share this important agreement, which includes the potential use of LNG, HVO, bio-LNG, and marine lubricants from renewable raw materials for MSC’s fleets. These products, distributed by Enilive, are a testament to our commitment to sustainable bunkering solutions.”
About MSC Group
MSC Group is a world leader in shipping and logistics, with a diversified fleet and operations across the globe. Known for its commitment to sustainability, MSC continues to set benchmarks in energy efficiency and decarbonization in the maritime sector.
About EniLive
Enilive, a 100% subsidiary of Eni, plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable mobility across Europe. Operating a network of over 5,000 multifunctional stations, Enilive offers far more than traditional refueling, integrating services like shopping, parcel collection, and on-the-go dining. Aligned with Eni’s Net Zero 2050 goals, Enilive is at the forefront of adopting renewable energy carriers, including hydrogen, bio-LPG, biomethane, and HVO—where it stands as Europe’s second-largest producer.
About Eni
Eni is an integrated energy powerhouse, leading the charge towards a balanced energy future that harmonizes traditional resources with innovative, sustainable practices. The company is devoted to ensuring global energy access while progressively transforming its energy mix into a more sustainable model.
Eni’s robust business strategy is deeply intertwined with principles of environmental and social sustainability, focusing on operational excellence, achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and forming strategic alliances for developmental growth. The company is actively expanding its renewable energy capacity and pioneering new technologies to harness energy from alternative sources, ensuring a sustainable energy transition.
With a firm commitment to utilizing gas as a transitional energy source and producing biofuels from waste and agricultural residues, Eni is dedicated to supporting the energy transition while championing a fair and inclusive approach.
As a forward-thinking global energy tech company, Eni is determined to produce and sell increasingly decarbonized and customer-centric energy products and services, employing cutting-edge technologies and continuous innovation.
Source Eni