- The shipping company increases the use of gas natural on ships equipped with dual engines
Baleària has experienced a 100% increase in the consumption of natural gas in its ten vessels equipped with dual engines in recent weeks. This important measure is estimated to prevent the emission of approximately 80,000 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere between June 1 and the end of the year. In October 2021, the shipping company chose to use this cleaner energy only in the entrances, approaches and stays in port to maintain its competitiveness.
Despite the adverse context that caused a temporary reduction in the use of gas, Baleària has maintained its commitment to this fuel that allows to reduce up to a 30% CO emissions2. In line with this strategy, Baleària it has added two other vessels that can run on natural gas. In 2022, the modernization of the Hedy Lamarr, and this spring the Rusadir, a cruise ferry with electric propulsion system powered by dual natural gas engines. In addition, it is under construction fast ferry Margarita Salasa Improved version of the innovator fast ferry Eleanor Roosevelt. In total, the fleet consists of eleven ships with dual engines, a versatile technology that allows them to navigate with different fuels, including natural gas, considered by Baleària as a transition energy, the cleanest and most mature currently available for maritime transport.
In addition, these ships are technologically prepared to consume 100% biomethane or synthetic methane, as well as green hydrogen mixtures of up to 25%. However, these renewable energies, neutral in CO emissions2, are not yet feasible due to cost and availability.
Fast ferry Margarita Salas
The Armon de Gijón shipyards have completed approximately 90% of the aluminum structure of the Margarita Salas, the second fast ferry of passenger and cargo Baleària with dual motors. The ship is expected to be launched this autumn and start operating next spring on the Barcelona-Ciutadella-Alcúdia route.
The Margarita Salas, similar to her twin, the Eleanor Roosevelt, will have a length of 123 meters, a beam of 28 meters and the capacity to transport 1,200 passengers and 400 vehicles. However, a second deck will be added with a lounge of seats in the bow and the surface of the aft terrace will be doubled with a bar service outside. In addition, the Margarita Salas will increase its power by 10% compared to its counterpart ship. The construction of this vessel is part of a project co-financed by the Next Generation Funds of the European Union.
