By
Alice Chambers |
MSC World Europa, which is in the final stages of construction, will become the most energy-efficient and largest LNG-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet when it is delivered in October 2022.
The ship is currently being built by shipbuilding company Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, and has had energy-saving strategies developed by Bloom Energy.
MSC Cruises’ use of LNG power will eliminate almost all air pollutant emissions, including sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides and fine particles, and will achieve cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 25 per cent. LNG power will also enable the development of low-carbon fuels and solutions such as green hydrogen, bio-LNG and fuel cells, by offering a temporary energy solution whilst these fuels are developed.
MSC World Europa will have 150-kilowatt solid oxide fuel cell demonstrators, which will generate auxiliary power with reduced carbon dioxide emissions; a selective catalytic reduction system that will decrease the ship’s production of nitrogen oxides by 90 per cent when LNG is not available for use; and enhanced shore-to-ship power capability to minimise engine use at ports.
“We are committed to a net-zero future, which is why we are investing heavily in the development of low-carbon fuels and solutions that will accelerate the decarbonisation of the maritime sector,” said Linden Coppell, director of sustainability for MSC Cruises. “MSC World Europa will be our most efficient ship yet and help us prove and refine environmental technologies for the future of our fleet. With this project, we are also advancing partnerships with technology suppliers, energy companies, academia, and regulatory bodies. We must all deepen our collaboration to unlock a zero-emissions future.”
MSC World Europa also features wastewater treatment technology, which complies with the International Maritime Organization’s MEPC 227(64) Resolution, and a ballast water treatment system that prevents the introduction of invasive species in the marine environment.
Energy usage throughout the ship will also be optimised through smart ventilation and advanced air conditioning systems, with automated energy recovery loops, allowing effective distribution of heat and cold across the ship. LED lighting will also be controlled by smart management systems to further enhance energy savings.
MSC’s partnership with Chantiers de l’Atlantique has also resulted in an innovative hull shape to minimise MSC World Europa’s resistance through the water, which will reduce the amount of fuel used to power the vessel.
In addition, the ship’s hull and engine rooms have also been designed to minimise acoustic underwater sound impact, lowering the potential impact on marine mammals in the surrounding waters.
The cruise line has invested €3 billion in three other new LNG-powered vessels, which will be delivered between 2022 and 2025. MSC World Europa will be followed by MSC Euribia, which is also currently under construction in Saint-Nazaire and will enter service in 2023.