The PONANT fleet is targeting the end of 2026 to have its entire fleet shore power ready.
Ships will be equipped with shore-side power connections.
Since the installation of the PONANT Explorer series in 2022, Le Bellot makes port calls in into Hafnarfjörður, Iceland, connecting to the port’s electricity network.
“We are exploring numerous options to achieve the goal of cutting our CO2-per-sailing-day emissions by 30% by 2030,” said PONANT General Secretary, Patrick Augier.
“We can now partner with ports that have this facility to assess the effects and constraints of these technologies in real-life conditions.”
Four vessels from the PONANT Explorer’s series – Le Bellot, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Champlain – already have shore power connections.
Two of the sister ships – L’Austral and Le Boréal are scheduled to be fitted in 2024.
PONANT’s shore power conversion represents a major investment of €1 million per ship.
It contributes to a substantial reduction in the company’s overall carbon footprint.
“This commitment not only enhances our brand but also propels us to strive for significant milestones in sustainability,” said PONANT CEO for Asia Pacific and Special Advisor Chris Hall.
The European Union has committed to a goal of decreasing its CO2 emissions by 55% between 1990 and 2030.
It is striving for carbon neutrality within the maritime sector by the year 2050.
Starting in 2025, additional taxes will be imposed on fossil marine fuels and as of 2024, maritime transport will be integrated into the European emissions trading system, involving CO2 quotas.
