First Spanish passenger ships powered by 2G biofuels

Spanish energy company Cepsa has announced that Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea ferries will make 84 trips across the Strait of Gibraltar in August using Cepsa’s second-generation biofuels. This is the first time in Spain that passenger ships will use this type of sustainable fuel, produced at Cepsa’s San Roque Energy Park from agricultural waste and supplied at the Port of Algeciras. The project aims to contribute to the decarbonization of maritime transport and enhance environmental sustainability.

The renewable diesel produced by Cepsa will be used in Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea ferries that connect Algeciras with Ceuta. The project showcases Cepsa’s commitment to promoting the use of sustainable biofuels in maritime transport and advancing the circular economy. The initiative aligns with the European Commission’s Fit for 55 package, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport and boost the use of sustainable alternative fuels.

Second-generation biofuels, such as those produced by Cepsa, can be used in ships without engine modifications and have the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels. This initiative is expected to avoid over 63 tons of CO2 emissions and allow the ferries to sail with up to 15% renewable diesel in their tanks, meeting EU targets ahead of schedule.

Cepsa’s efforts to promote sustainable mobility and decarbonize maritime transport also include other solutions like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and synthetic marine fuels. Through its 2030 strategy, Cepsa aims to become a leading biofuel producer in Spain and Portugal and a manufacturer of green hydrogen. The company is working towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the maritime industry.