Eni and MSC Cruises have completed a trial using Enilive’s HVO diesel biofuel on the cruise ship MSC Opera, confirming that the fuel can be used in pure form in validated marine engines without modifications, according to Eni.
One of MSC Opera’s engines ran for about 2,000 hours on pure HVO during the test, while performance and emissions data were recorded. Eni said the trial showed performance in line with traditional marine fossil fuels.
The test recorded a 16% reduction in NOx emissions, lower particulate emissions and an around 80% cut in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared with traditional fuel. Eni said the GHG reduction reflected the use of 100% biogenic feedstocks in the HVO production process.
Technical data from the trial were collected and assessed with support from Wärtsilä, the engine manufacturer, while Bureau Veritas acted as independent certifier to validate the results.
“The trial with MSC has demonstrated how HVO diesel biofuel can contribute immediately to the decarbonization of maritime transport,” Enilive chief executive Stefano Ballista said. He said HVO can be used in pure form in marine engines validated for its use, allowing a lifecycle emissions reduction of between 65% and 90% compared with traditional marine fossil fuels.
Ballista said Enilive produces HVO at its biorefineries in Venice and Gela, mainly from waste feedstocks including used cooking oils, animal fats and residues from the agri-food industry.
The companies said the test supports the use of HVO as a near-term option for cutting lifecycle emissions in shipping and helping shipowners meet FuelEU Maritime targets and reduce emission-related costs.
Eni is an Italian energy company headquartered in Rome and active across energy production, refining, mobility products and lower-carbon fuels.
Enilive is Eni’s mobility business and produces HVO diesel at biorefineries in Venice and Gela.
MSC Cruises is the cruise division of MSC Group and operates MSC Opera, the cruise ship used in the HVO trial.
