GTT, Bloom Energy and Ponant Explorations Group announced a joint innovation project to develop an integrated energy system combining Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) powered by LNG1 with Marine Carbon Capture (MCC) designed to cover the vessel’s energy needs related to onboard consumption. This breakthrough system is expected to equip Ponant Explorations Group’s future Swap2Zero cruise vessel by 2030, which will be propelled by wind-assisted system and fuel cells.
As part of this project, GTT will design and develop a Marine Carbon Capture system compatible with Bloom Energy’s SOFC technology. This integrated solution will supply auxiliary electricity for the vessel, covering hotel load such as lighting, hot water, and onboard services, while also capturing CO₂ from the combustion gases. This dual approach, combining emission reduction and the reuse of low-temperature energy from the ship’s cryogenic installations will further enhance the overall efficiency of the SOFC system through optimized thermal management.
This initiative reflects the partners’ shared commitment to advancing the decarbonization of maritime transport. By combining their expertise, they aim to develop next-generation onboard energy solutions that demonstrate the critical role of advanced technologies in this transition. Together, they intend to contribute to the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s decarbonization goals and accelerate the shift of the maritime sector towards low-emission operations.
Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT, commented: “Combining GTT’s technology and expertise with our partners’ is how we will design the ships of the future and accelerate the decarbonization of maritime transport. This project reflects our shared ambition to deliver high-performance and innovative solutions that support the transformation of maritime transport. We are proud to contribute to this ambitious and forward-looking initiative.”
Aman Joshi, Chief Commercial Officer of Bloom Energy, commented: “We see solid oxide fuel cells as a cornerstone of the maritime industry's low-carbon future. We're proud to contribute to the Swap2Zero project, an ambitious collaboration focused on developing next-generation vessels aligned with the IMO’s carbon reduction vision. Powered by LNG, Bloom Energy’s high-efficiency solid oxide fuel cell system not only delivers best-in-class electrical conversion but also captures and repurposes waste heat for onboard heating and cooling loads. By integrating fuel cells with onboard carbon capture and sequestration, this initiative exemplifies how innovation and collaboration can accelerate the transition to cleaner, more sustainable shipping.”
Mathieu Petiteau, Newbuilding and R&D Director of Ponant Explorations Group, commented: “This partnership is a key milestone in developing innovative and efficient ways to capture CO2 and embodies our commitment to finding new solutions to decarbonizing the maritime industry. It also marks another step forward for our Swap2Zero vessel project, co-funded by the European Union Innovation Fund and France 2030. It represents an important step towards delivering the next generation of low-emission vessels.”
