PONANT is continuing to spearhead efforts to minimise atmospheric emissions during port calls with its entire fleet to be equipped with new shore-side power connections.
Since the installation of the PONANT Explorer’s series by 2022, Le Bellot makes port calls in into Hafnarfjörður, Iceland, where the engines are powered down and the ship seamlessly connects 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 per cent by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2040,” general secretary, PONANT, Patrick Augier, said.
“We are among the first operators to invest in shore-side power connection systems. We can now partner with ports that have this facility to assess the effects and constraints of these technologies in real-life conditions.
“Our feedback will benefit the whole sector by contributing to ramping up the power of this equipment.”
The fleet will be equipped with shore-side power connections by the end of 2026.
Four vessels from the PONANT Explorer’s series – Le Bellot, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Champlain – have shore power connections enabling them to link up with a port’s electricity grid.
Two of the Sisterships – L’Austral and Le Boréal are scheduled to be fitted in 2024 with the entire fleet set to be equipped by 2026.
PONANT’s commitment to shore power involves a substantial investment of one million euros per ship.
The strategic deployment not only decreases atmospheric emissions but also contributes to a substantial reduction in the company’s overall carbon footprint.
“At PONANT, we proudly lead the way in sustainable maritime practices, passionately dedicated to forging a greener future for responsible tourism both locally and globally,” CEO (APAC), PONANT, Chris Hall, said.
“This commitment not only enhances our brand but also propels us to strive for significant milestones in sustainability, motivating us to work even harder towards achieving our ambitious goals.”
