Trials using biofuels on Spliethoff Group Vessels

21 January 2022

Spliethoff Group’s constant striving to reduce its CO2 emissions has led to two trials using biofuel on its vessels.

The first trial took place between June and November last year on BigLift Shipping’s HTV BigLift Baffin (flying the Dutch flag). The vessel was supplied with a blend of 50% FAME based biofuel – a second generation biofuel, made from waste streams – and 50% conventional HFO. The objective of this trial was to test if biofuel is suitable for use, as yet in combination with HFO, and to determine whether the biofuel can be stored in a bunker tank for a longer period before being used.

Since the results of this trial were positive on both points, the next step was to test the use of 100% biofuel. This step started in Amsterdam on 13 December when Spliethoff’s MPP vessel Flevogracht (flying the Dutch flag), was bunkered with 100% FAME based biofuel.

Once these tests have been completed successfully, Spliethoff Group will be able to offer clients the option to use biofuels for certain trades and projects which inherently gives the possibility of emission reduction in logistics. We look forward to sailing onwards on the road to sustainability in the years to come. 

Source: Spliethoff