Glander, Cepsa deliver 100% HVO for seismic survey vessel; ARC uses B30 marine biofuel for 1st time

The M/V ARC Independence (Photo: ARC)

Progress continues to be made in the supply and use of marine biofuel to decarbonize shipping.

Global bunker-trading firm Glander International Bunkering announced April 29 that it coordinated with the Spanish multinational energy company Cepsa to supply 100 percent hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), also known as renewable diesel, to a seismic survey vessel in Algeciras, Spain.

Although the seismic research vessel is not subject to EU Emissions Trading System, the biofuel supply was a preemptive part of its decarbonization strategy.

The delivery was also ISCC-certified, aligning with Glander International Bunkering’s emphasis on sustainability and traceability standards.

In fact, seven offices at Glander International Bunkering have ISCC EU and ISCC Plus certifications for biofuel operations.

Glander International Bunkering noted that it has witnessed an increase in biofuel demand, especially with the start of EU ETS this year.

“Some companies see biofuels as a trial run for decarbonization, while others consider biofuels as a drop-in fuel that saves greenhouse-gas emissions and eliminates the cost for new ships or modifications,” Glander International Bunkering stated.

Meanwhile, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) also announced April 29 that, consistent with a long-term emissions-reduction strategy, the M/V ARC Independence became the first ship in its fleet to incorporate biofuel into its operations.

“ARC is excited to be taking the next step in our decarbonization journey by introducing the consumption of B30 used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME) within our fleet,” said Eric Ebeling, the president and CEO of ARC.

UCOME is also referred to as biodiesel, or fatty acid methyl esters made from used cooking oil, which is processed differently than HVO.

“The B30 UCOME biodiesel blend is a drop-in fuel that can be used without any engine modifications,” said Fred Finger, ARC’s senior vice president of operations.

M/V ARC Independence is the first ARC vessel to load biofuel, bunkering its first load in late March in the port of Antwerp.

The vessel began burning the B30 UCOME on its current eastbound voyage to northern Europe.

“ARC views biofuel as a critical component in its emission-reduction strategy and expects it to have an increasing role in ARC’s drive to zero emissions,” Finger said.

ARC provides government services including global logistics and shipping services.

ARC and its U.S. affiliates own and manage the largest U.S.-flag Ro-Ro fleet.

This includes providing American-owned, managed and crewed Ro-Ro shipping and intermodal services committed to the requirements of the defense department, other U.S. government departments and agencies, and commercial customers.