By
Justin Merrigan |
DFDS is progressing towards its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and, as it does so, it is evident that the programme signifies more than just a corporate objective. Rather, it embodies the company’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship and its aspiration to lead the maritime sector towards cleaner and greener practices.
By combining economic success with environmental responsibility, DFDS aims not only to reduce its impact on the planet but also to contribute positively to a sustainable future for generations to come. The company is making substantial investments in advanced technologies aimed at reducing emissions across its fleet of vessels. This includes research into alternative fuels such as hydrogen and biofuels, as well as the adoption of more energy-efficient propulsion systems.
According to Mathieu Girardin, executive vice president of DFDS’s ferry division, the company is targeting a 45 per cent reduction in tank-to-wake carbon dioxide intensity for its vessels in the short term.
“To propel the green transition forward, DFDS is actively pursuing several initiatives,” says Girardin. “By the end of 2030, we aim to have six green ferries operational. We are also continually optimising our vessel operations by adjusting speed, enhancing schedules, reducing turnaround times in terminals under our control, and implementing technical upgrades. Last year, these efforts yielded a notable five per cent reduction in tank-to-wake carbon dioxide emissions intensity across our ferry network.
“As part of our commitment to emissions reduction, we plan to retrofit our vessels by upgrading components such as propellers and bulbs and we’re exploring technologies like special antifouling and air lubrication. On land, we’re implementing shore power in our ports, electrifying our terminal operations, and deploying electric trucks into the logistics fleet.”
DFDS will invest €1 billion to build six battery electric ferries for its English Channel routes, the first two of which will be operational by 2030
DFDS’s Vessels of Tomorrow programme is a cornerstone of its newbuilding strategy, aiming to have those six green vessels operational by 2030. This comprises of two methanol-powered, two electric, and two ammonia-fuelled vessels.
“The ammonia-fuelled vessels are slated to operate on a green shipping corridor between Sweden and Belgium that we are establishing with our partners, the Port of Gothenburg, North Sea Port, DFDS and Port of Antwerp-Bruges,” says Girardin. “The corridor could potentially become the world’s first green ammonia shipping corridor for ro-ro vessels. The two electric vessels will serve routes in the English Channel, while we are still looking into the detailed planning for the methanol vessels.”
Looking ahead, DFDS has committed to deploying up to six battery electric vessels on the English Channel by 2035, representing a €1 billion ($1.1 billion) investment. Girardin says: “We are collaborating with leading experts in battery technology, ship design and energy efficiency to ensure these advanced electric ships prioritise safety and performance while minimising environmental impact during production.”
In addition, DFDS is actively engaging with national authorities, infrastructure partners and energy suppliers on both sides of the English Channel to secure the necessary energy supply and infrastructure for its electric ships. “The green transition requires collaboration,” says Girardin. “Without adequate power supply on land and robust charging infrastructure in ports, operating these ships would not be feasible.”
While DFDS has conducted a feasibility study on hydrogen propulsion with H2 Energy, the company is not planning to use hydrogen as a fuel in the very near future. “Hydrogen is promising, and we are evaluating it as a potential future fuel source,” says Girardin. “The project demonstrated that retrofitting Magnolia Seaways with a hydrogen-fuelled propulsion system is technically feasible and commercially viable. However, establishing a cost-effective and scalable hydrogen ecosystem requires comprehensive energy infrastructure and policy support.”
Through innovation, collaboration and strategic investments, DFDS is paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future in maritime transport.
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